AJ Relocates to Australia as George Takes on Sales Leadership
After many years as a familiar face at Ladbrook Mfg Ltd, our Operations Manager AJ Johnson is heading off on a new adventure - relocating to Australia to take up an exciting cricket contract.
While we’re certainly going to miss having AJ around the factory, this isn’t a story about leaving Ladbrook Mfg behind; it’s about taking the opportunity to pursue something he’s passionate about in a country where he’ll be able to continue doing what he loves: playing cricket.
AJ has been part of the Ladbrook Mfg story for many years and has built strong relationships with customers, suppliers and colleagues along the way. From his early days working on the factory floor to progressing through administration and purchasing, before taking on the role of Operations Manager, he's developed an impressive understanding of every aspect of the business.
His knowledge, experience and relationships have been hugely valuable to Ladbrook Mfg, and we’re delighted that he’ll be able to embark on this next chapter while continuing to pursue his cricket ambitions.
From factory floor to Australia
He first joined the company at 18 while studying at college, starting on the factory floor before progressing into administration, purchasing and eventually operations management. Along the way, he became responsible for overseeing purchasing, production planning and liaising with customers and suppliers - developing the long-standing relationships that are so important to the way we work.
Outside the business, cricket has always been a big part of AJ’s life. An avid player and supporter, AJ has played for his local club, Bradfield CC, as well as travelling internationally to play cricket, including experiences with Glamorgan CC, South Africa and Centrals CC in Australia.
So, while Australia may be a long way from North Walsham, it’s a very natural next step for AJ. We’re excited to see where this opportunity takes him and wish him every success both on and off the pitch.
George takes on sales
As AJ heads to Australia, we’re equally excited to announce that George Johnson will be stepping into the role of Sales Manager.
For our customers and suppliers, this represents continuity rather than change. George is already a well-established member of the Ladbrook Mfg team and has been part of the business for more than 10 years.
Importantly, George’s experience goes far beyond one particular department. During his time at Ladbrook Mfg Ltd, he has gained hands-on experience across a wide range of the business, including production, sheet metal work, HR and programming.
That broad experience gives George a valuable understanding of what we do, how we do it and, most importantly, what our customers need from us.
George has always had a keen interest in programming and enjoys seeing designs develop into finished products on the shop floor. His experience within production and sheet metal means he understands the practical considerations involved in turning ideas and drawings into quality manufactured components.
His time working in HR has also given him a strong understanding of the people behind the business - something that has always been central to Ladbrook’s family values.
Now, as Sales Manager, George will bring all that experience together to strengthen relationships with our customers, understand their requirements and help identify the right manufacturing solutions for their projects.
Continuing the Ladbrook tradition
Ladbrook Mfg Ltd has been family-owned since it was established by the Spinks family in South London in 1936, before moving to North Walsham in 1947.
Almost 90 years later, those same values of service, quality and trust remain at the heart of the business. People are a huge part of that story, and both AJ and George demonstrate the value of developing experience and expertise within the business.
AJ’s move to Australia is an exciting personal and sporting opportunity, while George’s progression into Sales Manager provides a natural continuation of the relationships and knowledge built over many years.
Looking ahead together
We’d like to wish AJ all the very best for his new adventure in Australia. We’ll certainly be cheering him on from North Walsham and following his cricketing journey with interest. We’re sure his passion for the game will make this a fantastic opportunity, and we hope he enjoys every minute of this exciting new chapter.
Here at Ladbrook, it’s very much business as usual. With George stepping into the Sales Manager role and bringing more than a decade of experience, our customers can have every confidence that they remain in experienced hands. We look forward to continuing to build the strong relationships and high standards that have been at the heart of Ladbrook Mfg Ltd for nearly 90 years.
Get In Touch
We’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re looking for expert advice, want to discuss your project, or simply explore how Ladbrook UK can help your business, our team is ready to help. Call us on 01692 402156 or drop us an email at sales@ladbrookuk.com.
