Cooling and heating firm appoints new operations director

Bradford-based commercial refrigeration and air conditioning specialist, Pinder Cooling and Heating has announced the appointment of a new operations director.

Gillian Kirtland, a manager of teams, HR and operations, joins the firm as it looks to digitalise its operations and streamline its internal processes.

Her senior appointment is a result of significant growth in 2021, which saw the firm increase its turnover by 30% and headcount from 12 to 14.

Gillian has spent over two decades working as senior management within companies such as Marks and Spencers, John Lewis and Lexia Solutions Group, and is well versed in what it takes to scale a business without having a negative impact on employee and customers.

In her new role, she will devise and oversee Pinder’s digital transformation strategy, as well as creating new internal policies, and enhancing processes such as the employee onboarding journey.

This will support the firm with its ambitious plans to continue its growth from both a headcount perspective, and within the refrigeration, heating and air conditioning market – particularly within the hospitality, leisure and healthcare sectors.

Gill commented: “Pinder Cooling is preparing to grow further over the coming years, continuing to act as a reliable, professional and profitable organisation.

“We are making greater use of mobile and digital technology to manage tasks, share information and streamline our processes. This will allow us to make the best use of our time, resources, skills and experience for our customers.

“Communication is key, and we have involved the whole team in developing smarter ways of working. In this way we are helping each other move forward with success. I’m honored to be part of the journey and heading up such a fantastic project.”

Gillian is the second member of the Pinder family to be a part of the firm and joins her partner Andrew Pinder in the senior management team.

Andrew said: “As we continue to grow, it’s vital we add the right talent to our team. Gillian is experienced in transformation, and she has the right skills and qualities to be able to not only lead the change but inspire and lead the existing talent we employ.”