We’re delighted to welcome Kelly Barrell to the Marren team. With over twenty years’ experience in sales, and fifteen in the financial sector, Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge, business know-how and expertise in account management to Marren.
“I worked for Abbey for almost ten years,” explains Kelly. “That gave me plenty of experience managing customer accounts, developing new business and even managing the brand development.”
Five years in the commercial catering spares industry followed, where Kelly worked for GEV Catering Spares as an area sales manager. The role saw her visiting service and repair companies, wholesalers, equipment dealers and spare part providers.
“I was tasked with actively developing and maintaining relationships with new and existing customers,” says Kelly. “That meant I spent time in the office, on the road and in the digital world of social media. I was asked to raise awareness of GEV’s brand through strategic marketing, social media, and in collaboration with the GEV Group’s internal marketing team based in Munich.”
Kelly was unfortunately made redundant by GEV in June this year following a merger with Commercial Catering Spares, but undeterred, Kelly remained with the company to assist with the office closure and transfer of all GEV operations to its new base in Heywood.
Not long after, Kelly was contacted by Marren Operations Director, Malcolm Skinner, who explained that a Business Development Manager role had been created at Marren and she appeared to be the perfect fit. Kelly had been recommended by two industry professionals.
“I was flattered, to be honest!” says Kelly. “I’ve managed to thank one of them personally, but the other remains anonymous!”
Kelly’s role at Marren will focus on looking for opportunities to develop new business in service and spares, promote the company through social media and national publications and spend one day each week on marketing. She’ll also attend industry exhibitions both home and abroad, and prepare advertising plans and budgets.
“I’m absolutely delighted to be joining the Marren team and very much look forward to being part of the company’s continued success. It’s apparent that the Marren name and its staff are held in very high regard by customers and highly respected by other service companies within the industry.
“Marren have already provided me with a firm foundation from which to develop business with existing clients and build new relationships. I’m committed to helping the company grow, implement exciting new sales processes and further raise its brand awareness within the catering and service market.”
Kelly is married with four children and lives in Lincolnshire. “Loyal to the core”, in her spare time she loves making cupcakes, watching movies, going to the cinema with family and trying different places to eat.
Welcome onboard, Kelly!
