Pilkington announces senior business development promotion

Glass manufacturer Pilkington has promoted Leo Pyrah to head of commercial, with two additional hires in its specifications team.

Based at the European Technical Centre of parent company NSG Group, Leo will spearhead business development initiatives to drive growth.

Based in the company's Lathom office, Leo will lead the architectural glass unit’s commercial strategy while overseeing teams including sales, customer and technical advisory services, business development and marketing. He’ll report directly to managing director Neil Syder.

He brings 17 years’ experience in Pilkington UK and the NSG Group to the new role, moving from his previous post as marketing and VA manager.

With Leo’s appointment, Paul Shipley has also been appointed head of stock sales, whilst former specification sales manager, Jason Eggerton, will now become national business development manager.

Meanwhile, Bea Roberts and Arne De Ceapog have been appointed to two newly created specification sales manager positions. They will be focused on managing relationships with architects, façade fabricators and main contractors to connect Pilkington UK’s customer base with high value projects across the UK.

Leo Pyrah said: “It’s an exciting time to be leading our commercial team and Paul, Jason, and I are looking forward to the opportunities ahead. Major forces like climate change and the need to decarbonise are shaping the future of the industry, driving innovations like Pilkington Mirai – the lowest carbon architectural glass available on the market.

“Strengthening our offering even further is the expansion of our specification team. The knowledge and experience that Bea and Arne bring to the team will deepen Pilkington UK’s relationships with architects across the country to help connect customers with major projects and growth opportunities.

“An ever-evolving regulatory landscape continues to create new opportunities for customers too. And we’ll remain committed to supporting customers’ growth as economic indices point to growing activity in the construction sector.”

Neil Syder, managing director of Pilkington UK, said: "Leo’s wealth of experience, accrued over nearly two decades, will be invaluable in driving sustainable growth alongside our customers. His longstanding service is also testament to our commitment as an employer to invest in people, with Leo originally joining the business as a graduate in 2007.

“Through enhancing our team’s capabilities, we are better positioned to support with innovative solutions and an exceptional service - ensuring we can meet the evolving needs of the market.”