UK printer Abbey Labels has promoted Craig Rutterford to the position of sales director, effective 1 September, 2021.
Mr Rutterford first joined Abbey Labels in 2005 as an apprentice, following in the footsteps of his grandfather and father, who both spent their working lives in the print industry. Stepping into his new position from the role of sales manager, he will continue to head up the sales team and oversee marketing activities, while taking on more responsibility for the overall sales strategy and future company developments. He has also joined the company’s board of directors.
Mr Rutterford said, ‘This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I’m very pleased to take on this new challenge. I look forward to making full use of my long experience and deep knowledge of the label printing industry, at a crucial time when the company is gearing up for more growth.
‘Right from the start as an apprentice printer, I knew I had found a great place to work. That feeling has not changed over the years as I have progressed up through the business. Abbey Labels is my second family, and like me, many of my colleagues have worked for the business for more than 15 years.’
The appointment follows the retirement of Francis Milne, who left the position as sales director in 2019 after 32 years with Abbey Labels
Abbey Labels chairman Tom Allum said, ‘Craig has been an integral part of our team for many years, and will no doubt put his own stamp on the job. He is aware that he has big shoes to fill, but we know that he is up to the task and together look forward the next chapter in our history.’
