Ant Jempson has been appointed as the new Area Sales Manager in the South West and Wales for Weinig UK and Holz-Her UK. His role, which will see him sell both solid wood and panel processing machinery, will focus on driving sales and developing key relationships with new and existing customers, whilst also promoting the company’s extensive machinery portfolio.
With over 16 years of experience in the woodworking industry, Ant has a solid background in b2b sales and has forged long-standing relationships with woodworking professionals from a multitude of backgrounds. A qualified mechanic with an avid interest in woodworking, Ant’s technical mindset and problem-solving capabilities have seen him carve out a successful career selling traditional woodworking machinery, accessories and consumables in the South West of England. However, it’s Weinig UK’s excellent reputation and premium product offering that enticed him to his new role.
“There was always a cross-over with larger machinery manufacturers in my previous role and in many instances, I would introduce my customers to machinery manufacturers if I thought they needed a higher level of automation or wanted higher production rates,” says Ant. “That’s where my interest and technical understanding of larger woodworking machinery stemmed from.
“Connecting the dots and working closely with customers to find solutions that will allow them to overcome industry challenges - not only in the day-to-day manufacturing of products but also by future-proofing their processes – is what gives me job satisfaction.
“I’m also really passionate about the area of the country I live in and enjoy finding ways to support and strengthen the community. That’s why I volunteer as a responder for the Devon and Cornwall 4x4 response team and was a special constable for a number of years before that. I believe it makes you a more rounded person and allows you to learn and relate to those around you. In sales, this couldn’t be more important and I believe it will stand me in good stead in my new role.”
Malcolm Cuthbertson, Managing Director of Weinig UK adds, “Ant’s passion and dedication to the woodworking industry is clear. I believe these qualities, along with his strong work ethic and drive to grow the South West market, will make him an asset to Weinig UK.”
