In these times of uncertainty, being diligent, resourceful, efficient and pro-active can prove the key to success, and this is what Peterborough based building materials distributor, EPD Insulation Group, have built their business on.

EPD Insulation Group supply PIR, Glasswool, Rockwool and Phenolic Insulation, Plasterboard, Plywood, Drywall, Fixings and general construction materials to independent Builders’ Merchants and the Screeding and Drylining industries from Southampton in the South, Great Yarmouth in the East, Bristol in the West and up to Yorkshire and Manchester in the North.

Due to further recent growth, EPD Directors, Steve Boon and Tony Brown, had looked at where inward investment was needed most and, as a supply company, its transport department ticked all the boxes.

A substantial injection to its fleet had already been planned, so now was the time to hit the accelerator and drive the business forward with 15 x Mercedes Sprinter vans, 6 x Renault 32 tonne curtain sided vehicles with vehicle mounted, 4 x Mercedes 32 tonne curtain sided vehicles with vehicle mounted offload and 10 x Loadmac 855 vehicle mounted offloads. All these vehicles have either already been delivered or are in the pipeline for delivery before June this year.

Managing this transport department has also needed a huge investment in time and effort and EPD are proud to say that Transport Manager, Chris Pratt, has just passed his CMI level 7 Management qualification.

This qualification is designed for senior managers who have the responsibility to translate organisational strategy into effective performance. The CMI Level 7 qualification requires managers to focus on the development of their organisational strategy and provide strategic leadership and management.

Chris has risen through the ranks and is now better prepared to manage his teams and individuals, setting appropriate targets and facilitating effective working practices. This is all geared towards strategic leadership, achieving strategic business goals and being able to identify organisational change and the steps required to achieve it.

Chris said of his achievement “The course has given me the tools and resources to improve both my management and leadership decisions and skills. Managing such a large team requires constant improvement by setting achievable targets. Following the successful completion of the course I am more equipped to assist the business in creating, executing and managing a strategic business plan. This is essential for the continued growth of the department as well as the whole company.”