Chris joined Burdens straight from school in 1984, working on the trade counter at the Heaviside Drainage depot in Keynsham, Bristol. He progressed rapidly and, on his 21st birthday, was made manager of the Culvers Road depot in Keynsham, subsequently managing the Swindon and Cinderford depots. Directorships followed: initially regional director south west and later regional director Wales and the west when the two regions were combined.
During his 25 years with the group, he has resisted other offers of employment: “I have continued with Burdens because of its genuine vision and values – akin to an ethos or creed. Add to that the significant charitable ownership model, and you have a unique employer. I keenly anticipate the opportunity in my new role to combine my practical experience of operations to fast-track the many new and positive opportunity initiatives”.
A better way to do business
Chris’s belief in and commitment to the charitable side of the Burdens business is demonstrated in the success of the projects with which he has been involved. For example, he was a member of the corporate board of the Children’s Hospice South West, Wraxall, Bristol for which Burdens south west region raised £50,000. He also helped raise £20,000 and sourced materials at very competitive rates for the boat house extension for Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA). At the same time, a purpose-built classroom to aid community awareness of water safety on the dangerous River Severn was also created. And at Ty Hafon Children’s Hospice, Barry, South Wales, Chris is a member of the corporate business group responsible for fundraising.
