Two ceramics firm bosses have a combined total of 116 years’ service between them – and there’s no sign either is retiring.
Brothers John and Paul Heath, of Burslem-based family firm Sneyd Ceramics, are 78 and 77 respectively. They are so dedicated to their work that a company re-structure is underway to allow them to carry on in a reduced capacity.
As they scale back their weekly working hours, with other family members entering the firm alongside two new Directors, John and Paul will stay at the helm as Joint MDs.
“The restructure is a way of Paul and myself being able to work less hours,” said John.
“We will be able to enjoy semi-retirement while reassuring our customers that their requirements will be met going forward.”
The family has been involved in the pottery industry since 1875 and the brothers’ father Ewart Sydney Heath started as a sole proprietor in the late 1930s, making it one of Stoke-on-Trent’s oldest.
John and Paul both joined straight from school and they were both key players as the company became Sneyd Oxides in the 1980s and Sneyd Ceramics was launched in 2008.
Looking back John said: “It has been very hard at times, but very entertaining as no two days are ever the same.
“We have met some great work colleagues and customers over the years and look forward to meeting many more.”
Going forward John’s grandson Adam joins the Technical Department and Paul’s nephew Fredrik joins as Sales Co-ordinator.
Alongside them will be Debbie Smith as Financial Director and John Culshaw as Technical Director with 33 and 22 years’ experience at the firm respectively.
Sneyd Ceramics develops and supplies colours and glazes used in modern-day ceramics, supplying all sectors including the likes of Churchill China and Portmeirion Group as well as small individual potters, schools and other educational facilities.
