After 15 years of dedicated service, Graham Fitton, the finance director of Burnley-based window and door manufacturer VEKA, has decided to retire. His departure, however, marks the beginning of a new chapter for the company, as Head of Finance Mohmed Namaji steps into the role.
During his tenure, Graham Fitton has made a significant impact on VEKA. The company applauded his role in steering the business through the turbulence of the 2008 global financial crisis, ensuring its continued success. His financial acumen was also instrumental in the company’s transformation during the recession, including the acquisition of Bowater Building Products and the Halo brand, which remains an asset of the company. More recently, Graham played a key role in strategically mitigating the economic challenges posed by the pandemic, implementing processes that ensured the continuity of the business.
The transition to a new finance director has been seamless, with Mohmed and Graham having worked closely together for many years. Their partnership was celebrated with a ceremonial ‘passing of the calculator.’
Graham Fitton previously served as the chief financial officer of roofing company IKO before joining VEKA. Expressing his bittersweet sentiments about retirement, he stated, “It was obviously a difficult decision, but I am confident in the knowledge that I leave the role in a more stable place than I found it, and it couldn’t be left in more capable hands. VEKA is a family-owned business, and as such it feels like I am leaving my family. I have enjoyed a long career and truly believe that if I don’t leave now, I never will.”
Neil Evans, the managing director of VEKA UK, acknowledged Graham’s invaluable contributions, stating, “Graham has been integral in the company’s success, and we would not be where we are today without him. It is an incredibly difficult departure to accept.” Evans expressed his best wishes for Graham in his retirement and congratulated Mohmed on his promotion, expressing full confidence in his ability to lead the company forward.
As VEKA bids farewell to one finance director, it welcomes another. The company looks ahead to a promising future under the leadership of Mohmed Namaji, whose expertise and dedication are expected to contribute significantly to VEKA’s continued success.