Kent Blaxill appoints new decorating centre manager

Laura Downing has been promoted to the role of decorating centre manager at Colchester for East Anglian independent builders merchant Kent Blaxill.

The 24-year-old was previously assistant showroom manager, having worked her way up after starting in 2005, and will now be responsible for improving the appeal of the centre to both retail and trade customers.

“Decorating is a very important part of our business so we want to continue to improve the appeal of the decorating centre to a wide range of customers,” said Andy McMahon, Colchester branch manager. “As a result Laura’s role has been given greater scope.”

She will be in charge of seven-strong team who sell both trade and designer paints, wallpapers and tiles.

Commenting on her new role, Downing said: “I am lucky to have such a strong team of hard working and knowledgeable individuals. I hope to help drive sales and motivate my team to make us the best decorating centre in Colchester. I have great support from Janine Scarff, our decorating rep, and the rest of my team. We made progress in my first few weeks by winning new business. Our DecXpress van is also working really well. The new same-day delivery service is sparking a lot of interest and encouraging more sales.”

Last year Downing received a regional award as the Institute of Leadership & Management learner of the year, and also earned a diploma in first line management.