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Hutchinson appoints Iain Sharples to strengthen chemical transport operations
Chemical transport specialist Hutchinson has appointed Iain Sharples as operations manager, strengthening its leadership team as the Middlesbrough-based business targets further national transport contracts.
Iain joins from specialist chemical transport operator GCA, bringing extensive experience of dangerous goods transport, operational planning and fleet management.
His appointment follows the recent arrival of commercial manager Chris McGirr from Schenk UK, as Hutchinson invests in the people and resources needed to support its growth plans.
Iain’s career began in the British Army, where he served for eight years from 2008 to 2016. Working across transport, maintenance and logistics, he progressed to overseeing transport operations supporting an entire brigade, with responsibility for vehicle availability, maintenance coordination, fuel logistics and operational planning during military exercises and deployments.
After leaving the Army, he entered the civilian chemical transport sector as a Class 1 ADR driver, delivering bulk chemicals throughout the UK. He went on to progress through transport planning and management roles at GCA, gaining experience across driver management, compliance, fleet operations and the day-to-day demands of specialist chemical transport.
Iain Sharples said: “Hutchinson has a strong reputation in chemical transport and there’s a real ambition to grow the business. That’s an exciting opportunity to be part of, particularly with the experience already within the team and the relationships the company has built with its customers.
“My background has taught me to look at the whole operation rather than individual departments. Good planning is essential, but so is recognising problems early and having people who can respond when circumstances change. I’m looking forward to bringing that approach to Hutchinson and helping the business develop.”
Established in 2000, Hutchinson provides specialist chemical, gas and bulk liquid transport services to multinational manufacturers and distributors. The family-owned business is continuing to invest in additional fleet capacity and experienced personnel as it pursues further opportunities in the UK chemical logistics market.
Rhys Hutchinson, managing director of Hutchinson Transport, said: “Iain brings the operational experience and understanding of the industry we need as we grow. He knows the importance of good planning, but he’s also someone who understands what happens out on the road and the pressures our customers face. That combination will be valuable as we take on more work while continuing to look after the customers who have helped us build the business.”