Bristol-based Plantforce has announced changes to its senior team, as former COO Sam Mercer is announced as the new CEO and with founder Claire Trott moving into a new role as founder executive director.
Claire founded Plantforce 25 years ago, with three machines and two staff serving contractors in the southwest. Now a Tier 1 national plant provider, the company has taken on some of the UK’s largest major projects. Claire will continue in an ambassadorial role, focusing on relationships with clients, mentoring the Plantforce team and sharing her considerable experience.
“The time is right for me to hand over the reins. I have achieved what I set out to achieve, and there is no better person than Sam to take over my life’s work. I look forward to being part of what comes next!” she explained.
Sam Mercer has worked at Plantforce for over twelve years, working his way up from the workshop to the C-suite. He aims to consolidate Plantforce’s reputation as a trusted Tier 1 supplier, while retaining the family feel of the company.
“We have ambitious plans for Plantforce, continuing the path set out by Claire. I feel lucky to be taking over when the business is already in such a strong position. We have an excellent reputation for being innovative, solutions-focused partner to our customers, delivering what we say, when we say, with integrity," he said.
Meanwhile, Bill Caplan, chair of the board at Plantforce added: “The timing is right for Sam to succeed Claire at the helm. Sam is extremely capable, and highly respected in the industry and within business. I have every confidence he’s going to achieve great things for Plantforce in this new phase of growth. And he will have Claire at his side, supporting the business, spending more time with key customers, and mentoring team members. The next chapter of Plantforce’s journey will be an exciting one. Watch this space.”