Toy and gifts supplier Jasnor (Australia) has appointed James Thurlow as CEO with immediate effect.
After working at the business for many years, Thurlow is ready for his next challenge.
“I started 30 years ago as a primary school student in the family kitchen as a quality control officer, checking nesting dolls for my mum, Sherrie who started the business back in 1988,” he explains.
“During school holidays whilst we were at school, my brother Richard and I would often help packing orders in the warehouse. I started on a full-time basis with the business 13 years ago after my university studies and overseas travel. Across those years I have fulfilled pretty much every role within the business which really provides me with a strong understanding of the requirements of each department.”
Indeed, Jasnor has benefited a great deal from Thurlow’s skills over the past 12 years and will no doubt continue to do so in the future as the business enters its 31st year.
‘’We are very pleased to have James assume this leadership role in our company,’’ says Noel Thurlow, chairman of Jasnor.
“James has demonstrated strong leadership skills and his ability to build and maintain lasting relationships with various stakeholders within our company, along with external business partners, has been instrumental in making this decision.”
There have been many ups and downs over the 30 years and the closing down of the ABC shops was challenging, says Thurlow, as they were one of Jasnor’s largest accounts.
“Interestingly though it made us think outside the square which in the long run was beneficial. 2019 will be an interesting year in a tough retail environment, however, I am confident with the product we have coming through it will be a good year for us.
“I am really looking forward to the long term strategic planning and to continuing to working with our fantastic team, many of whom, like me, have been in the business for over a decade.”
By Marion Gerritsen
