Gerard Wilson, Sales Director, and Mark Kirkpatrick, Technical Director at SAM, have recently celebrated their 30 year work anniversary of dedicated service with the company. Their three-decade journey stands as a testament to the pivotal roles they’ve played in SAM’s growth and success in its 35 years of business.
Three Decades of Leadership, Loyalty, and Growth at SAM
Gerard and Mark’s journey is intertwined with SAM’s growth from a small factory to the UK’s leading manufacturer of MDF mouldings. Both joined the company in 1995 as young trainees on work placements, stepping into a team of just 14 employees. Over the years, they’ve witnessed, and contributed to, SAM’s incredible transformation. They’ve helped to shape its growth into a market leader known for innovation, quality, and customer service.
Despite the exponential growth, Mark reflects on how SAM has stayed true to its roots, proudly maintaining the strong family values and collaborative culture that were present from day one. These principles have remained a constant, providing a supportive environment where people are encouraged to grow and thrive.
Throughout their 30 years, both Gerard and Mark have embraced every opportunity to develop professionally. Rising through the ranks, they’ve each held a variety of key managerial roles that have shaped their leadership skills and deepened their knowledge of the industry. Today, as Sales Director and Technical Director respectively, they stand as testament to the long-term career progression and personal growth that SAM champions.
Standout Moments from a 30-Year Legacy
Looking back at some of their greatest achievements and rewarding moments over the past three decades, both Mark and Gerard share personal highlights that capture the pride and passion they’ve invested in their careers at SAM.
For Mark, one standout memory is from 2002, when SAM’s name lit up the big screen in Barcelona as the company was announced the sole winner of the prestigious European Quality Award. Being recognised on such a significant international stage was not only a proud moment for SAM, but also a powerful affirmation of the team’s relentless commitment to excellence and quality.
Gerard reflects more broadly on the sense of fulfilment that has come from witnessing SAM’s steady and impressive growth over the years. Watching the company evolve from a small local manufacturer into a recognised industry leader within the MDF mouldings sector has been incredibly rewarding. What makes that success even more meaningful, he says, is the people he’s shared the journey with, colleagues who have become friends, and a team whose collective passion and dedication have helped shape SAM into what it is today.
Continuing the Journey Ahead
As both Gerard and Mark continue their 30 years of service with SAM, the company looks forward to many more years of success and growth together. Their commitment and deep understanding of the business remain vital as SAM enters its next chapter of innovation and growth.
Mark shares his enthusiasm for what lies ahead, particularly when it comes to embracing the next wave of technology. He’s excited about the opportunities to future proof the factory and equip the team with the tools and knowledge needed to stay at the forefront of the industry. His vision for continuous improvement and forward-thinking leadership reflects SAM’s ambition to not just keep pace with change, but to lead it.
This milestone is about more than just two significant careers, it’s a reflection of SAM’s core values, teamwork, integrity, respect and loyalty. Gerard and Mark’s journey embodies the culture that has been the backbone of SAM since its early days and remains central to its identity today.
Congratulations to Gerard and Mark for reaching their 30 year work anniversary at SAM! Their story is not only a celebration of the past, but a motivator for the future, for all those who are part of the SAM journey.
