As a result of a period of exceptional business growth, Krone UK has bolstered its team with four new recruits.
Following a record-breaking 2021-2022, achieving a 15 percent increase in sales turnover, Krone has hired a new national product manager and three territory managers to help steer the company and its product portfolio as it continues to grow at pace.
The first new recruit, Ben Davies, has joined the team as product manager after spending 20 years working at CNH Industrial in a variety of roles, from technical training to after sales territory management in the UK market, as well as factory technical support and engineering. Prior to leaving CNH, Mr Davies’ role was focused on global product management and marketing for the tractor business.
“Krone is a key player in the agricultural machinery sector, with the broadest line-up of hay and forage machinery on offer. We’ve a strong emphasis on research and development based on customer needs, putting the business at the forefront of innovation,” says Mr Davies.
“I’m delighted to be working with such a forward-thinking team and have the opportunity to support the growth of the company,” he adds.
The second new recruit, Liam Featherstone, is based in the Peak District and has taken on the role of territory product support manager, covering Wales and central England.
Mr Featherstone has previously worked in field services for dealerships and manufacturers, such as B&B Tractors and Grimme UK. He has also specialised in sugarbeet machinery, and worked on pre-production projects and product line development, while also assisting regional dealerships.
“Krone produces market-leading machinery and has built a solid reputation in the industry for reliable kit and back-up services,” he says.
“This in-house support will help me deliver customers with the best possible service. For me, there’s no better feeling than working with our support team to repair or set up a machine to work to its optimum.”
Jonathan Miller also joins the team as territory product support manager, for the South West. He has over 25 years’ experience working in specialist field service and technical support roles nationwide for global agricultural machinery businesses, spending the last decade working at AGCO, with Challenger and Fendt brands.
“I’m keen to work with Krone’s specialist product range, with close links to the factory, while striving for business growth and customer satisfaction across the region,” says Mr Miller.
And finally, Charlie Thornton-James has joined the business as a territory sales manager, also for the South West.
Based in Dorset, he has worked with contractors for over 15 years, having spent three seasons in New Zealand. Since then, he has been working for manufacturers and built strong relations with dealers in the area.
“The quality of Krone machinery is second to none. It’s clear to see how pioneering the company is at producing high-end machinery that meets customer needs. I’m pleased to be part of a team delivering this for the industry,” concludes Mr Thornton-James.