Chadwicks Group, a leading distributor of building materials to the broader construction industry, has announced five senior appointments across its business, strengthening its leadership team. The appointments include General Manager positions at Heiton Steel, Proline, and The Panelling Centre, a new Managing Director for Davies, and a Branch Manager for Morgans Timber.

As the Irish business continues to experience sustained growth, Chadwicks Group has made the appointments as part of its full-service strategy to meet customer needs in an increasingly demanding market.

Peter O’Brien – Managing Director, Davies

Peter brings over 15 years of experience in the heating, plumbing, and mechanical ventilation industry and holds a degree in engineering. Peter joins from C&F Quadrant Ltd, where he was Sales Director for the past two years, driving significant turnover growth, adding new product agencies, and launching a trade-focused e-commerce platform. Previously, he held senior roles at Eurogas, Heat Merchants, and Davies, where he served as Commercial Manager earlier in his career. Peter’s deep industry knowledge and strategic leadership will be instrumental in driving continued success at Davies.

Brian Keating – General Manager, Heiton Steel

With a varied career spanning Ireland, the UK, mainland Europe, and Australia, Brian has worked on large-scale projects involving steel bridges, formwork, scaffolding, safety products, and access systems. A qualified engineer, he has collaborated with clients on specialist structural and civil solutions. His customer-first approach and industry expertise will be key in driving profitable growth at Heiton Steel.

Lorraine Togher – General Manager, Proline

Lorraine Togher has been promoted to General Manager of Proline after playing a pivotal role in the business since 2018. Over her tenure, Proline has more than doubled its turnover. Most recently, Lorraine served as Finance and Administration Manager and has successfully led the team over the last three months. Lorraine holds a degree in Business Studies from GMIT and has experience in finance and operations in both Ireland and Australia. A graduate of the Chadwicks Leadership Development Programme, Lorraine brings a deep understanding of Proline’s operations and customers.

Gary Higgins – General Manager, The Panelling Centre

With over 25 years of experience in sales, retail, and management, Gary has held leadership roles across multiple industries. His career includes management positions with Dunnes Stores, Woodies, D.I.D Electrical, and Cash & Carry Kitchens, where he led the kitchen operation for seven years. Gary is focused on growing The Panelling Centre’s trade business while also strengthening its retail presence. His passion for technology, digitalisation, and automation will play a key role in supporting the business’s growth strategy. Originally from Dublin and now based in Stradbally, Laois, Gary is a father of four and enjoys running, cycling, and swimming in his free time.

David Bowe – Branch Manager, Morgans Timber

Chadwicks Group welcomes David Bowe as Branch Manager of Morgans Timber. David joins from Sliderobes, where he held senior leadership roles for over a decade, including eight years as Managing Director. During his time at Sliderobes, David led key initiatives such as retail renovations, the implementation of a new CRM system, and the development of a paperless manufacturing facility. His expertise in operations and product innovation will be instrumental in expanding Morgans Timber’s range and driving sales growth.

Commenting on the appointments, Patrick Atkinson, CEO of Chadwicks Group & Ireland Distribution, said: “I am delighted to welcome Peter, Brian, Lorraine, David, and Gary into their new roles. Each of them brings extensive expertise and leadership experience, and I have no doubt they will make a significant impact as we continue to expand and enhance our service offering in both Southern and Northern Ireland. With Ireland’s construction market showing resilience and housing supply a key priority for the incoming government, these appointments will further strengthen Chadwicks’ ability to support customers in a dynamic market.

 “At Chadwicks, we are committed to developing our internal talent while also attracting industry-leading professionals. These appointments reflect our strategy of ensuring we have the right people in place to meet our customers’ needs and drive future growth. I look forward to working with them and seeing their contributions strengthen our business.”

Pictured above: Peter O’Brien (Managing Director of Davies), Brian Keating (General Manager at Heiton Steel), Lorraine Togher (General Manager at Proline), David Bowe (Branch Manager at Morgans Timber) and Gary Higgins (General Manager at The Panelling Centre),

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