Yorkshire-based textile manufacturer, Think Group (formerly James Robinson Fibres / Texfelt), has appointed John Rhodes as Group Procurement & Supply Chain Director to accelerate the organisation's investment in innovation as it builds on its 150-year heritage and reputation as a pioneer in the fibres and nonwovens sector.
John will join the senior leadership team, bringing over 20 years of experience, having spent his career with John Cotton, one of the biggest players in the non-wovens industry. His experience spans procurement, supply chain, strategic sourcing, supplier development and long-term commercial partnerships across many of the markets in which Think Group operates.
John's appointment is part of Think's approach to continue investing in its people, partnerships, and capabilities, and to enhance opportunities for growth across its core markets in the UK, Europe, and further afield.
With significant experience across several of Think’s core markets and a strong track record of developing long-term relationships, John’s experience will help the organisation enhance its processes, broaden capabilities, and fast-track plans to grow in the UK and internationally.
Commenting on his appointment, John said: “Think Group has a strong heritage, established customer relationships and significant opportunities for further growth. A key part of my role will be building on our strategic supplier partnerships, broadening our access to new materials and technologies and developing a resilient, competitive supply chain that supports both innovation and our customers.
“I’m particularly looking forward to working with our suppliers and teams internationally to identify new opportunities, strengthen existing relationships and support the next stage of Think Group's development.”
Managing Director, Danny Shortall added: “Our core markets are changing quickly, whether through new technologies, materials, costs or changing customer requirements. We want to stay ahead of those changes and continue developing Think Group as a trusted partner that brings ideas, knowledge and solutions to its customers.
John’s appointment will support Think Group move forward with its longer-term growth plans, the appointment adds expertise, elevates Think’s procurement, supply chain and technical capabilities, and strengthens the partnerships that have supported the business over many years.”
