Michael – Machinist
Michael has been with us for 15 years, having joined as a mere strip of a lad after leaving school. Since then, he’s worked on many of the machines as well as driving the forklifts outside.
He likes the variety of doing something different every day and the scope for extra training, so that things never get boring. As he starts at 6am and finishes at 2.30pm, he gets the rest of the day to himself to do his own stuff – as a fitness and personal trainer!
“What’s a good day? Yey Friday! The lads get on well and we meet up outside of work. Most people have been here a long time. The bosses treat us well, so people tend to stay.”
Andy – Manager, Nordic Range
Andy’s career has gone from strength to strength at Allan Brothers. He started with us as a skilled production operative on the factory floor, then joined our busy team of Project Coordinators.
His excellent product knowledge and a talent for helping customers made him the perfect choice for Manager in charge of our new Alu Clad Nordic range.
“It’s been quite a journey. When I joined the company, I never thought I’d end up running my own department, overseeing everything from enquiries and product specification through to final delivery.
“As Nordic is such a technical, high-performance range, it’s been a big learning curve. But I get the chance to work with lots of architects, contractors and end users and to handle much larger and challenging projects, which is really rewarding.
“Allan Brothers has always encouraged me to pursue my ambitions and have confidence in myself, so I’m determined to make the most of this opportunity and make the Nordic range the most successful part of the business!”
Linzi – Production Manager
Running a factory is traditionally considered to be a man’s world, but Linzi is in her element as our first-ever female Production Manager.
She loves the pressure of being responsible for the entire factory floor, from the nitty-gritty of the machine centre, assembly, glazing and finishing, through to the loading bays and stores, including managing over 40 production operatives.
“When I started my career in fashion, running a clothing shop, I never thought for one moment that I’d one day be a Production Manager in a timber window and door manufacturing business. But I love it! Every day is different and always busy with new challenges, and we have a really great team. We all pull together – but also make sure that we have a laugh!
“Allan Brothers has given me the opportunity to develop my skills and my career and quite frankly I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
Jack – Project Coordinator
Jack joined us as a Project Coordinator Apprentice, while doing business admin and IT at college. As he’s been quick to learn all about the office procedures, he now helps to train the newbies and other apprentices that come in.
“My family said it was a good place to work. Everyone helps everyone else and takes a pride in what they do. We concentrate on getting the details right rather than rushing and making mistakes.
“When I started. I learned about the pricing, but I now have my very own customers to look after – I’m a bit competitive so I try to make sure they get the best service!”
What does he like best about his job? “Processing orders – that gives me a real sense of achievement!”
Elaine – Finance and Procurement
Elaine has been with us for 15 years. During that time, she’s done everything from credit control, purchase leger to procurement. She always has an easy going smile in her voice – even when chasing payment!
She thrives on the pressure of end of month accounts, deadlines, and seeing that the company has healthy growth figures.
“I’m in a great position to see just how far the company has come. Things are looking good and that gives me a lot of satisfaction.
“My favourite things about the company? Aside from the fair wages and good health/dental benefits and pension, I’ve got to say it’s the people! We have a big ‘away day’ every year, treasure hunt, sponsored walk and Christmas party – the company definitely encourages the social side!”
Carol – Commercial Office Manager
Carol, our Commercial Office Manager, is often described as the ‘mother figure’ at the centre of the business and a good ‘listening ear’ who looks after everyone.
Having joined Allan Brothers in 2011 after a career in banking, she quickly progressed through the company from sales and admin to HR Manager before taking on the demanding combined role of Commercial Office Manager.
“I’m proud of how the business has grown and of what we have achieved. I work with such a supportive committed team, and between us we’ve been able to upgrade facilities, improve working conditions, issue more permanent contracts and critically during and after Covid, we’ve been able to offer mental health support where it’s been needed.
“Allan Brothers has given me the opportunity not just to develop my own role but to bring about positive changes that have helped others.”
Keith – Quality Control
Keith is known for his ‘eagle eye’ as he inspects every window and door we produce to ensure it is manufactured to the highest standards.
His background in carpentry and understanding of the various stages of window manufacturing mean he can spot the slightest flaw or blemish from a mile off, and he’ll put it right before it leaves the factory gate.
“I’ve always been a bit of a perfectionist and stickler for detail, so the manager encouraged me to spread my wings and take on the role of quality control, where I could put my skills to good use.
“I enjoy every minute of my job because at the end of the day, I feel I’ve achieved something worthwhile. It’s a good crowd here. The bosses are easy to talk to, and they listen. I also enjoy the perks – particularly the ‘pasties’ for lunch at the end of every month. My mate said this was a “canny” place to work – and he was right!”
