Cris and Bob retire from John Mason

Feb 12 | 2014

Bob Clarke & Cris O’Hara retired from John Mason International at the end of 2013. Simon Mason took over as CEO in January 2014 with support from Noel Briscoe who takes on the role of COO. Caroline Mason is the new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).



Bob Clarke joined the company in 1987. After working for Pickfords as national sales manager, he developed the business at a phenomenal rate and won numerous tonnage awards for the company. Due to his achievements in this role, he progressed to the Board of Directors and eventually became managing director in 1995.  Bob has also been a great contributor to the industry and has participated on many industry boards. Former Chairman Paul Mason relied on Bob and Cris for the running of the business and he greatly appreciated their support. Bob’s dedication and devotion to the company and the moving industry is unparalleled and this is reflected in his incredibly successful career.  

 

Cris O’Hara joined John Mason International at the age of 21 and has been one of the company’s longest serving members of staff. Beginning her career in the imports department as an ambitious young apprentice, she was keen to make her mark. She quickly progressed to management level then to international director and ultimately deputy managing director. Her long and highly successful career has been characterised by high standards, attention to detail and a determined and positive attitude to get the best from her team. Cris has been of great value to the company throughout her time with John Mason  International, dedicating herself to increasing the company’s international business, transforming the company’s IT platform and quality management systems as well as successfully developing overseas agent relationships


During the last few years, Bob and Cris have been working on a detailed succession and retirement plan on behalf of the company, to ensure a smooth transition for the next generation of senior leadership. 

 

Simon returned from his international work experience placement and joined his family company in 2012 as Group Sales Manager. He became Director of Business Development in 2012, managing John Mason’s Sales operations and Corporate Accounts including Fortune 500 companies.

 

Noel has a background in freight forwarding and this wealth of knowledge and shipping expertise has been of great benefit to the company and will continue to be so in this new role. Noel joined John Mason as Imports Manager, progressed to General Manager and eventually became International Director in 2010, a role which has proved to be a perfect fit for his extensive expertise and operational knowledge. 

 

John Mason International would like to publically thanks Bob and Cris for all of their hard work and loyal service over the years and wish them a very happy and well deserved retirement. The company looks forward to an exciting and promising future for the next generation of leaders at John Mason International. 

 

Photo:  Bob Clarke and Cris O’Hara


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