Export Director, Derrick Blackham has announced he will be retiring from Albert Jagger after more than 44 years of dedicated service at the end of the month.
Derrick first started at Albert Jagger when he was just 17, in 1978, and has worked his way through the business. Starting as an ‘Assistant to the Buyer’, he soon moved departments to UK Sales where he began an administrative role. In 1979, Albert Jagger introduced their first computer system, which saw his evenings occupied with a computer programming course at Walsall College. His new skillset led to a new role of ‘Computer Manager’.
As the business evolved, so did Derrick’s role as ‘Operations Manager’ which came with more responsibilities. After several years he then moved back into UK sales, becoming ‘UK Sales Manager’ to the internal sales team. When head office moved to a purpose-built site in 2001, he took on the role of Export Manager which later progressed to his final role as Export Director.
In his own words, Derrick said, “It has been a privilege to have worked for such a great organisation for so many years and alongside some incredible colleagues. Being involved in the transition over the past decade that saw record sales for both the company and export sales is one of my greatest achievements. I will be forever grateful to have been given the opportunity to travel the world meeting customers and suppliers. But the time has come where I am now looking forward to winding down and spending more time with the family.”
Some of Derricks fondest memories of his time at Albert Jagger include working with Garth Cooper, Group Chairman, when he had the foresight to replace dusty old ledgers with computers. Another fond memory was being involved in the centenary celebrations in 1987.
Garth Cooper, Group Chairman said “We would like to thank Derrick for his dedication and loyalty to Albert Jagger, our customers, and our team over the years. Throughout his time here, he has influenced the development of the company and he will leave a lasting impression on the people he has met along the way. He is a well-respected and valued member of the team and will be missed by colleagues here. We wish him the very best in his next chapter.”
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