Burton Roofing Merchants has announced the retirement of John Watson, the company’s director, after 48 years in the building and roofing industry.
John started his career at 18 with Pattinson and Co. Builders Merchants in Newark, Nottingham. According to a company statement, this is where he honed his skills and climbed the ranks. He was headhunted by A M Proos & Sons, which culminated in the opening of a new Roofing Merchant branch in Newark in 1992. After SIG Roofing acquired A M Proos & Sons, John continued in his role for several years.
In 2007, David Proos established Rinus Roofing Supplies and John joined as a director in 2010. The statement added that Rinus expanded to over 20 branches with John’s support.
The 2021 acquisition by Burton Roofing Merchants allowed John to contribute his experience to the merged company, it noted. The company stated that John played a key role in its integration and managed important accounts.
John said: “I will miss the people – the staff, customers, and suppliers, many of whom have become lifelong friends. My career has always been about focusing on people first and I’m happy that Burton will continue this ethos.”
Ian Leigh, managing director of Burton Roofing Merchants, added: “John’s contributions over the years have been invaluable. His leadership, industry knowledge, and dedication to building relationships have helped shape Burton into what it is today. We wish him a retirement filled with happiness and new adventures.”
A retirement party was held at the Cross Guns Inn in Egerton, attended by both former and current colleagues, customers and suppliers. Ian Leigh presented John with a token of appreciation on behalf of the company.
