Sliderobes, which specialises in the design and fitting of high quality fitted bedroom furniture, has made a number of senior level appointments to help drive the company forward within a period of sustained growth. Managing Director Richard McMullan says that with significant development planned, bolstering of the management team is important.

Hugh Hayes, with Sliderobes for more than 20 years as General Manager, has been appointed Director of Production and Installation. Working alongside him will be new Production Manager Wayne McAllister, who has been with the company for 15 years. Patrick Stanley, again with 20 years' service, has been appointed Installations Manager.

Shirley Smith, following success in managing and implementing the company's extensive new CRM (customer relationship management) system, has become Customer Services Manager.

Richard explains that getting the right people in place was to be vital in the coming years: "As we grow it becomes even more important that we have experienced people in these positions. This is not a faceless business, we're very friendly, hands-on and we rely on good long-term relationships. We value working closely with our franchisees so that they derive the maximum benefits from running their own businesses."

Sliderobes directors and senior management have also participated in a major training programme, accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management. The scheme equips them personally to deliver quality training programmes to franchisees. Richard believes that this development strengthens the offering to franchisees and will increase profitability across the organisation. "It's a natural progression to see that the people who are part of the Sliderobes team are best placed to deliver the appropriate training," he added. "In the future all our franchisees will be trained by those who do the job. This sets Sliderobes apart from much of the competition who will often teach theory, but not practice."

Field Sales Manager Rodney Jess, whose role involves close contact with all 15 existing franchisees, explains that the franchise model grew out of an already successful business: "With Sliderobes people are buying into a tried and tested formula and work with people who know the business inside out and are always on hand to give support. By supporting franchisees with one of the very best franchise packages, we attract high calibre applicants. These are people with a real drive and enthusiasm for building a successful business."