HIRE specialist Plantforce has announced changes to its executive leadership team, with former COO Sam Mercer becoming CEO and founder Claire Trott moving into a new role as founder executive director.
The changes arrive as the Bristol-headquartered company enters another phase of planned growth. Claire founded Plantforce 25 years ago with a yard in Yatton, three machines, and two staff, and has grown it to a Tier 1 national plant provider. She will continue in an ambassadorial role, focusing on relationships with clients, mentoring the Plantforce team, and continuing to share her experience.
“The time is right for me to hand over the reins,” Claire said. “I have achieved what I set out to achieve, and there is no better person than Sam to take over my life’s work. I look forward to being part of what comes next.”
Sam Mercer has worked at Plantforce for over 12 years, working his way up through the business, from the workshop to the C-suite. He aims to consolidate the company’s position as a Tier 1 and major projects supplier, whilst retaining the family feel of the firm.
“We have ambitious plans for Plantforce, continuing the path set out by Claire,” Sam revealed. “I feel lucky to be taking over when the business is already in such a strong position. We have an excellent reputation for being innovative, solutions-focused partner to our customers, delivering what we say, when we say, with integrity.”
Bill Caplan, chair of the board at Plantforce, added, “The timing is right for Sam to succeed Claire at the helm. Sam is extremely capable, and highly respected in the industry and within business. I have every confidence he’s going to achieve great things for Plantforce in this new phase of growth. And he will have Claire at his side, supporting the business, spending more time with key customers, and mentoring team members. The next chapter of Plantforce’s journey will be an exciting one. Watch this space.”
