Changes bring in the New Year at Whartons
After 35 years at the helm of Whartons Garden Roses Managing Director, Robert Wharton takes on the role of Chairman, stepping aside for Paul Wharton to take on the role of Managing Director.
Paul joined the business in 2002 initially focusing on his passion for field production before taking on the broader role of Operation Director in 2014.
Supporting Paul, in the new role of Sales & Marketing Director is Jo Davey, who joined the business in 2019 as Marketing Manager. In addition, Kiley Goodswen becomes Operation Manager.
Paul said ‘’this is the perfect time to welcome Jo and Kiley to the senior management team. I know they’ll relish the opportunity to work with me to drive our business forward, ensuring continuity for many years to come’’.
Kiley, has risen through the ranks, joining the company in 2002. Kiley commented, ‘’I’m looking forward to my new role, particularly developing younger members of the team and improving efficiency to better meet our customer needs’’.
Jo said, ‘’it’s a fantastic new role and I’m looking forward to helping drive efficiency and innovation throughout the business. We have a clear vision, to select, grow and market the best roses for our customers and the consumer. It’s this focus throughout the business which will drive us forward, no matter what the operating environment throws at us’’.
Robert Wharton said ‘’the business celebrated its 75th anniversary last year and these changes will ensure we remain in a strong position to continue into the future’’.
From its Norfolk base Whartons Garden Roses produces over 1.5million roses each year for the retail market, working with the UK and Europe’s leading Rose breeders to select the best rose varieties for UK gardens.