Former Chairman Alan Pardoe reflects on 55 years of service with The Hills Group.
Thanks & farewell
Employees, shareholders and stakeholders reflect on Alan Pardoe’s and Nick King’s contributions to Hills.
Troughton about for 125
The day the King’s Lord Lieutenant Dame Sarah Troughton toured Hills’ sites to mark our 125th anniversary.
Making a difference
Social Value Lead Amanda Gale explains why doing the right thing can create a business advantage.
Dion’s journey
A commitment to be the best in whatever he took on has seen Dion Francis’ progress to Operations Manager at our Northacre site.
Leading
the front
Following promotions, long-serving employees Pamela Hunt and Caroline Wilde are leading Hills into the future.
A year to remember
2025 will not be a year that I will forget quickly! Throughout the year we commemorated the 125th anniversary since the business was founded by my great grandfather Edward in 1900. This was celebrated in style in September by the family and senior management at the conference, and also a month later, when I had the honour of escorting the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire around a few of our key sites (page 10). Next stop …150 years!
The year will also be remembered for the well-earned retirement of three company legends, who amassed 115 years of service between them. After featuring the career of Pete Andrew in the last issue, who stepped down at the beginning of 2025 – the latter part of the year saw the farewells of Group Chairman, Alan Pardoe and Nick King, Group Director – Homes. The contributions of these men are huge and you can read the many tributes on pages 4-9.
However, business-wise, 2025 will also go down as one of the most challenging years that I can remember. Although we are still waiting for economic conditions to improve, I am confident that building upon the strong foundations laid down by the three gentlemen mentioned above, coupled with the energy and ambition of the new leadership team – we can look forward to a brighter and more positive few years going forward.
intouch joins Kendra Dunn, Quarry Products’ first female Mini-Mix LGV Driver for a day on the road.
Mike Hill, Chairman
retire after a combined 90 years of service! Alan Pardoe & Nick King
In Hills’ 125th year, two legends of the business embarked on well-earned retirements. Here, The Hills Group Chairman, Mike Hill shares his thoughts on the contributions of the previous Chairman, Alan Pardoe, and former Group Director of Hills Homes, Nick King.
Alan Pardoe
“I have written about many retirements over the years, all of whom have made valuable contributions to the success and survival of my family’s company. However, this is without doubt at the top of that list!
“Not surprising, considering that Alan has been employed by the company for 44% of its 125 years of existence, working for, and with, three generations of the family!
“I have known Alan since I was a young lad, when I had no idea that I would spend 31 years of my life working with him! 14 of those were with my father Robert as Chairman, who had a great relationship with Alan, and some of my fondest company memories are with the two of them.
“Since I became CEO and he became Chairman in 2008, we have had a rollercoaster of a ride – but my goodness we have had some fun!
“He has been a rock to me, and I’ll admit that it will be difficult for me not to have him around. Alan was not just a colleague, he has become a great friend, and I know that I will enjoy many good times with him, Heather, and their family in the future.”
Nick King
“I have very much enjoyed working with Nick over the last 28 years. He has always been a very thorough and conscientious person and has patiently soldiered on through all the good times and bad times that we have lived through in the housebuilding game over the last three decades. Throughout all this, he kept his dry sense of humour and his calm approach.
“Nick has played a pivotal role in building the Homes business – overseeing a wide variety of developments from barn conversions to Hills’ largest ever development at High Penn Park in Calne – winning numerous awards in the process.
“I would like to thank Nick for everything he has done for us over the years, and I hope that in return we have supplied him with an enjoyable and challenging role. He should be very proud of his career and thoroughly deserves to take it easy, although after a few months as a full-time dog walker and babysitter of grandchildren, he may be begging to come back!”
Mike Hill Chairman – The Hills Group
from Alan A goodbye
Last year Alan Pardoe retired from his position as Chairman of The Hills Group after an incredible 55 years of service. Here, Alan reflects on more than half a century with Hills.
“I was very pleased that the formal closure of my long association with the company came during it’s 125th anniversary year. I have indeed been fortunate to have had a career with the business spanning over five decades, but perhaps more importantly than time, it has been a period when the company has grown and prospered and I have very much enjoyed being part of that story. I am sure it will continue to forge ahead to new highs over the next few years.
“My personal highs during my time with the company were continuing to develop and expand the Cotswold Water Park, the successful development of our ready mix business the commencement of the gas business (Handygas), its expansion and eventual sale to BP. Winning the first Wiltshire Contract, developing the recycling business, building our first waste treatment plant (MBT), and starting the housing business.
“My thanks of course go to all the people who came on this journey and contributed to the success. There are too many to mention, and sadly many are no longer with us.
“Not only to the employees and the management team, but also to the family shareholders who have consistently supported us through the years, and enabled us to make long term plans, even when times were not quite so good.
“As many of you know, I have moved to Dorset, which is not far away, and I will be able to continue to be involved and whenever possible support the business in the future. I wish all of you good fortune and great success in the future.”
As Alan Pardoe and Nick King embark on their respective retirements, a selection of colleagues and associates share their thoughts on two Hills’ legends…
It has been a privilege to have worked with Alan. The success and culture of the company in the recent generation is in no small part down to him. Alan is a calm force, quietly leading and influencing, with a keen sense of humour even in the most serious of times. Personally, he has supported me to pick up the mantle and continue the legacy for the next generation. A truly unique career and individual. I wish the best for him and his family for a well-earned rest. I can’t thank him enough for everything to date.
Ed Dodd, Chief Executive
I have reported to Alan one way or another throughout my 42 and a half years at Hills and consider myself extremely fortunate to have had such a wise and considered leader. Always aware of the big picture, as well as being able to grasp the detail, Alan unfailingly provided clear, practical, guidance when we needed it. A strong personal bond has resulted which I know will continue.
Dave Bevan, Finance Director
It was always a pleasure meeting up with Alan, whether on a visit to a nature reserve or in the boardroom. He showed a keen interest in how the company’s support was enhancing nature and offered gentle words of support and encouragement that were much valued. In his quiet way, he has been a champion for Wiltshire’s wildlife and an unsung hero for nature. The county owes him a big debt of gratitude.
Dr Gary Mantle MBE, CEO of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust 1990 – 2023
Alan has been fundamental in the development and growth of the business, and has been the kingpin in creating the Hills we know and love today. For me, Alan has been a true friend and exceptional leader and has supported and guided me through my career with Hills. I cannot thank him enough and wish him a very happy and enjoyable retirement.
Pete Andrew, Development Consultant –Aggregates (former Group Director - Quarry)
Having worked with Alan over nearly 28 years I’ve always found him extremely thoughtful, steady, and fair. He has always been very level-headed with few signs of ups and downs in temperament. Like the proverbial stick of rock, he has Hills at his core.
Nick King, Development Consultant (former Group Director – Homes)
I have had the privilege of working closely with Alan to support the growth and continuing success of The Hills Group. For me, Alan’s insight, experience, professionalism, and overall warmth stood him apart, and I should say, made for tough but enjoyable negotiations! May I take this opportunity to wish Alan and Heather a long and happy retirement.
Justin Smith, Regional Director & Head of Corporate, NatWest Bank, South West & South Wales
It has been a real privilege working with Nick. His down-to-earth leadership and genuine passion for the industry and his division have been unwavering. Wishing him all the very best for a happy and well-deserved retirement!
Pamela Hunt, Director – HR
Nick has been nothing but patient, kind and generous with his time in sharing his experience with me. I have learnt a considerable amount from him, and I believe it will put me in good stead to take Hills Homes forward, despite the inevitable challenges we currently face. He is hugely respected industry wide, and has had a positive impact not only in the workplace, but also in the communities he has helped deliver. These will stand as a testament to his passion and personal endeavour. He has been a great mentor, and also more importantly a great friend. I wish him and his family nothing but the best for the future.
Mark Tinson, Divisional Managing Director – Homes
One day Nick asked me to take him into Swindon town centre, but I refused point-blank to drive around the Magic Roundabout. I genuinely thought I’d crossed the line saying no to my MD! He didn’t react at all – just looked at me calmly, gave clear directions, and we got there without any issues. I fly around the Magic Roundabout now without thinking. That calm composure and clear direction said everything about the kind of leader he is. He will be much missed.
Linda Cahill, Sales Manager – Homes
I’ve had the pleasure of working for Nick King for the last decade, and I have been genuinely impressed by his leadership and expertise within the industry. Nick expected hard work from team members and was a fair and steady leader.
Nick has always given me his time and passed on his knowledge willingly, and I feel he has encouraged me to progress with new roles and responsibilities within the company. I am truly grateful for his support and I wish him a very long and happy retirement.
Darren Cawkwell, Quality Control Manager – Homes
I have worked with Nick for several years as part of the main board for The Hills Group. More recently following changes at board level, he has helped me understand what building homes as an SME entails. He is calm, considerate and has a wealth of knowledge of the sector and Hills Homes. I am very grateful for the help and wish Nick all the best for his retirement.
Ed Dodd, Chief Executive
Thanks for everything
you have done
Hills’ shareholders pay tribute to Alan Pardoe and Nick King.
In the late 60’s, I was teaching law at Swindon College at Regent Circus, and I remember one industrious student, who was preparing for his management accounting exam. His name was Alan Pardoe. In those days Alan had a mass of dark curly hair which seemed to grow outwards rather than lengthways. I suppose this was the trendy ‘Hippy’ style of the era! It was certainly very different from the elegant silver fox that we are familiar with in more recent years!
Alan passed his exams with flying colours and joined Hills soon after finishing his studies. That was in August 1970. He initially worked in the accounts department at Okus. In those days a lot of things were processed by hand and Alan, more than most others, must have witnessed the greatest technological changes in the last 50 years.
In 1970, neither Alan nor I could have foreseen how much he would become involved in the management of the company and the huge influence he would have on the company’s culture in his various roles – as Financial Director, Chief Executive and Chairman. An impressive service record of more than 50 years!
He became a good friend and was like a member of the wider Hill family, The company has always supported its employees and officers and it’s a fun place to work. Alan, in particular, has also always been committed to looking after staff and working closely with local communities. It was very appropriate that Alan’s formal retirement should coincide with the celebration of the company’s 125th anniversary in Portugal in September 2025.
Rosie Hill
I think I remember first meeting Alan 40 years ago as I visited Hills office at Kingshill Swindon to say goodbye to a friend, before I set off travelling to Australia. Alan has simply always been ‘there’, a calm confident leader and great fun at parties!
My father Victor thought a great deal of Alan and always had a lot of time for him and to me that is the biggest compliment. My goodness we will miss him, but I don’t suppose and hope he’ll ever be too far away.
Bronia Hill
My experiences with Alan and Nick are simply those enjoyed alongside my infrequent visits to England, especially during shareholder meetings and updates. My ‘chats’ with both Alan and Nick have always left me feeling very optimistic, as is their innate ability to be gregarious and ‘glasshalf-full’. Not only have they been wonderful contributors to the Hills business over many, many, years, but also compassionate and generous with their wisdom and time. My life has certainly been enriched having known both Nick and Alan. My family and I wish both gentleman a long, happy, and well-deserved retirement.
Charlie Hill
Where do you start with these two chaps Alan and Nick? My mother Pat Hill, wife of Edward Hill has known them from the time they first joined the company. They have been there to see two more generations come through. Myself, Charlie, Emma and Anna, and now our children Jennifer, Adrian, Angus, Cristian and Andrew. and have got to know them too. They have been there like a linchpin to the company and to us as a family. Alan is always there to help us regarding the business, making sure everything is okay for us, be it business, conferences, and the villa. Nick again has been the same in the housing department and how it has grown so much over the years. It is a pleasure to know both of them and to be friends. They will be sorely missed.
Sarah Scarlett – on behalf of Pat Hill, Alan Scarlett, Anna and Ayhan Ozberk, Jennifer Clements and Adrian Scarlett
What a journey the last 55 years have been. Thanks for everything you have done to keep us moving forward. Happy retirement. Lyn, Ian and Julie Hill
Back to the Future in Portugal
125 anos de história (125 years of history)
Back in September five generations of the Hill family, and the senior leadership team gathered in Cascais, Portugal for the 21st Shareholders Conference.
It was chance for The Hills Group Board to present details of each divisions’ performance, as well looking at future plans, in what is a challenging economic environment.
After the presentations and talk about business, the conference attendees were treated to an unforgettable all singing, all dancing ‘Back to the Future’ show, which celebrated the company’s 125 years in business. In keeping with the theme there was even a Delorean car –a version of which featured in the film of the same name.
Lord Lieutenant visit marks 125th anniversary
Dame Sarah Troughton, the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, representing His Majesty King Charles III, was welcomed by The Hills Group’s Chairman Mike Hill – and accompanied on a tour of several key sites to mark the company’s 125th anniversary.
“It was an honour to accompany the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Dame Sarah Troughton, on a tour in recognition of the company’s 125th anniversary. To achieve this 125 year milestone and host the King’s representative in the county makes me very proud – and is due to the dedication of my forebears and many thousands of loyal employees since Edward first fired up his kiln in 1900.”
Mike Hill, Chairman, The Hills Group
“My tour of Hills and its different and diverse businesses has been a fascinating experience. I was intrigued to discover what really happens to our rubbish –something most of us never think about. My sincere thanks to Mike Hill and everyone at the company for such an informative and inspiring visit.”
Dame Sarah Troughton, Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire
The leadership team with the new Divisional Managing Directors presented to the shareholders at the 21st conference.
Amanda Gale – Force for good
Social
Value
Lead
for The Hills Group, Amanda Gale talks about her mission to ensure Hills delivers meaningful benefits to the communities we serve and the environment we depend on.
Why is social value important?
“Social value is both the right thing to do and a powerful way to strengthen our company. It’s about building lasting connections in the communities where we operate: not just through financial support, but also by sharing our time, skills, and opportunities.
“Whether it’s offering opportunities for young people to gain work experience, driver training programmes, employing exarmed forces personnel, supporting local events like Calne Pride, or running environmental workshops in schools, the impact is real. Even something as simple as volunteering a few hours to help restore local habitats can spark lasting change.
What difference have we made?
“The HR team has introduced a volunteering scheme that has seen employees supporting Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Cotswold Lakes Trust, and Phoenix Enterprises. We have trained Mental Health First Aiders, celebrated the first anniversary of our Learning For All initiative, and expanded wellbeing support for colleagues. Investing in training and career development is key, helping people grow with us as we grow as a business.
“We have also created meaningful opportunities for SEND students to gain work experience, providing hands-on insight into the world of work. Alongside this, our Waste team continues to take recycling and sustainability education into schools and nurseries, sharing simple, practical ways to reduce waste. These sessions truly made an impact, one class even made us thank you cards using handmade recycled paper, a wonderful reminder that the message had landed and inspired real action.
What do I enjoy most about this role?
“For me, it’s seeing the difference we make. Whether that means inspiring a child to care about the planet or helping someone gain confidence and skills through work experience, every action counts. Social value is about the positive impact we create across everything we do, in every division. At Hills, this is reflected through three core pillars: economic, social, and environmental. These values have always been part of our culture, rooted in strong family principles and a deep sense of community.”
Barnaby Briscoe from Fairfield College receives a certificate from Recycling Manager, Henry Newbery following the completion of his work experience at Honeyball Household Recycling Centre.
feel good Do good to
Hills’ Volunteering Programme
The Hills Group volunteering programme was introduced as an extension of our Wellbeing Hub –offering employees a meaningful way to connect with our communities.
Through the programme, every employee is entitled to two paid volunteering days per year, which can be taken during work hours. So far, we’ve had six volunteering days, with 32 volunteers taking part, giving approximately 192 hours.
Julie Clayton, Employee Relations and Wellbeing Lead, reflected: “Our volunteers have embraced a wide range of opportunities – from hands-on outdoor tasks like weeding,
pruning, and clearing countryside paths, to collaborative work with adults with learning and physical disabilities. These experiences have not only supported vital causes but also fostered new connections, bringing colleagues together from different teams and locations. It has been amazing to see the results from everyone’s hard work across the days.”
Cine Pereira, IT Coordinator, who volunteered for two of the volunteer days, said: “The volunteering days were insightful. It was a refreshing change from our usual office roles, and we got to get really stuck into hands-on tasks. I had fun and it felt good to contribute to charity.”
The volunteer programme will continue throughout 2026 with even more diverse and rewarding opportunities. Keep an eye out for upcoming communications and get ready to roll up your sleeves and make a difference.
Mental Health First Aiders
It’s easy to recognise when something is wrong with your physical health, but mental health issues often slip under the radar, unnoticed and unspoken. Last summer, two cohorts of willing employees underwent two-days of intensive training sessions to become Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAs).
As Julie Clayton from the HR team explains: “The training gave the volunteer employees invaluable skills to recognise some of the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions, provide non-judgmental support and advice, signpost individuals towards professional help, self-care strategies, or workplace resources such as the online Wellbeing Hub.
“With this training, our MHFAs are now equipped to play a crucial role in supporting and promoting positive mental health in the workplace.”
Chris Waddell, Group Digital and Publications Manager (centre) and Liz Carr, Credit Control Team Leader (right) are pictured with service users at Phoenix Enterprises during their day of volunteering at the Swindon charity.
From the ground up...
Dion Francis, Operations Manager, Northacre MBT, shares his Hills’ journey from a junior role through to management.
“I joined Hills as a General Operative in July 2017, aged 20 before which I had a job as a delivery driver for a local charity.
“My initial responsibilities included maintaining and cleaning the site environment and some machinery including conveyors. In 2019 I undertook forklift training and became a Bailer Operator. By 2021 I had moved up to become a Shift Process Operative, which covered a lot of responsibilities including becoming qualified in mobile plant training which means I can train colleagues.
“My Shift Supervisor role came in 2022 when I started leading a team of five and I gained more qualifications such as NEBOSH and COTC. And in March of this year, I took up my current role as Operations Manager reporting to Plant Manager, Paul Scriven.
“I didn’t join Hills with any specific ambition other than to always strive to be the best in whatever I took on.
“The job has its challenges given the complexities of managing our plant, but we have a good team and hopefully one day I can step up again.
“In my spare time, I mostly enjoy golf with old school friends and some of my colleagues and I also enjoy time with my family including my niece and younger siblings.”
Dion Francis, Operations Manager (fourth from left) and some of the team from the Northacre Resource Recovery Centre in Westbury.
Light at the end of the tunnel
Homes’ update
Mark Tinson, Divisional Managing Director shares a progress update of Homes’ developments…
“We are now well into 2026 and the general feeling amongst the team is one of optimism. With work steadily progressing on three of our sites: Old Yells Yard –Fairford; Coalfield Close – Midsomer Norton, and Garden Close – Sutton Benger (see CGI above), we are starting to take reservations, which is encouraging. We have also commenced work at our fourth site Stanton Meadows in Swindon (formally Catsbrain Farm), which will be a flagship strategic site for us with 74 units.
“This steady progress has not come without its difficulties, and although the government policy changes that will look to improve the planning system are being implemented, there are still some significant challenges – namely with service and utility providers and their capacity to deal with demand, as well as a tough housing market.
“However, I have faith in the product we are delivering, and judging by the interest so far, the carefully selected sites are looking like they will buck the market trend due to their desirable locations.
“I could not be prouder of both the office, site teams, our partner sub-contractors and suppliers, with their dedication and hard work – as we look to deliver a steady flow of sales within the desirable communities we are creating.”
The Communications team, Hills Homes and Richard James estate agents are busy working on a brand new website which will be live this summer. This partnership is already yielding impressive results, in the form of a stylish suite of development brochures.
Award underpins
Wellbeing commitment
Homes has scooped the prestigious Building Safety Group – Occupational Health Award for Hills’ online employee Wellbeing Hub.
Mark Tinson, Divisional Managing Director, Hills Homes, said: “It was fantastic to see Hills and our HR team, who created and implemented the Wellbeing Hub in conjunction with colleagues from Communications, receive this well-earned recognition. It puts more visibility on the platform, which will hopefully result in even more of our employees making use of the benefits it provides.”
Pamela Hunt, Director – HR added: "We are incredibly proud to receive this award. It reflects our commitment to fostering a culture where wellbeing is not just a priority, but a core part of how we operate. Our people are our greatest strength, and this achievement reinforces the importance of listening, supporting, and investing in wellbeing.”
...goes from strength
Development work for Hills’ online training platform ‘Learning For All’ began in 2023 and was launched to employees in June 2024. Since then it has gone from strength to strength – fostering continuous learning and professional growth while also helping to streamline compliance training for employees.
The Learning For All platform has achieved some impressive statistics:
14,157 LOGINS
34,082 TOTAL LESSONS COMPLETED
3,065 HOURS OF LEARNING
As Pamela Hunt, Director – HR explains: “The success of Learning For All wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible dedication of our contributors. A huge thank you to Kerry Chandler HRIS & Payroll Lead, Emoke Stapleford Talent & Development Lead, Andy Johnson, Talent & Development Advisor and all the Learning for All Working Groups ‘behind the scenes’ for their vision, hard work, and commitment to excellence. We also couldn’t have done it without all of our dedicated users, Line Managers and Administrators. Your commitment to growth, learning, and shaping the system has helped to successfully launch it and embed it into our day-to-day operation. Throughout 2026 we’re excited to bring you even more resources, fresh e-learning content, and opportunities to expand your use of the platform. Here’s to continuous learning and success!”
Pictured left to right: Neil Sherreard, Chairman BSG; Mark Tinson, Divisional Managing Director Hills Homes; Pamela Hunt, Director –HR; Julie Clayton, ER & Wellbeing Lead – receive the BSG Occupational Health and Wellbeing Initiative Award.
Leading from the front
intouch profiles two colleagues who have achieved well-earned positions in the senior leadership team.
Pamela Hunt, Director – HR
In June 2025, Pamela Hunt was appointed Director – HR. After joining Hills in 2007 as a member of the HR team, Pamela progressed through a variety of roles across the department. In 2017, she was appointed HR Manager and was promoted to Head of HR in 2022.
Over the years, Pamela has led numerous strategic initiatives and organisational transformations that have shaped Hills’ people strategy and growth.
Under Pamela’s leadership, Hills has celebrated one year of Learning for All, the launch of the Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) initiative, and collected the BSG National Occupational Health award for the Wellbeing Hub.
“I am delighted and honoured by this change, and I would like to thank the executive team for their belief in me. It has been a busy time for the HR team over the past few years, and I am proud of everything the team has achieved.”
Caroline Wilde, Divisional Director – Commercial & Industrial (Waste Solutions)
We talked to Caroline about how the first few months in her new role have shaped up so far:
“From day one, I’ve made it a priority to get out on the ground, meeting the people who keep our business running.
“Alongside depot visits, I’ve engaged closely with our wider operations teams. I want to ensure that any changes we implement are practical, sustainable, and truly supportive of the people delivering our services every day.
“On a strategic level, I’ve been focused on pulling together a strong leadership team and laying the foundations for growth. By creating a seamless structure, we can deliver the excellent service our customers expect and deserve.
“There’s still plenty to do, but I’m excited about the direction we’re heading. I want to thank everyone who’s taken the time to share their insights, ideas, and frustrations with me so far. Your honesty and commitment are what will drive this division forward – and I’m proud to be part of it.”
Caroline starred on the cover of intouch in 2005 as one of the company's
Corrine shadows Kendra for concrete insights
This issue, we are proud to spotlight Kendra Dunn, who is based at our Woodsford Quarry and Concrete plant, and joined Hills in 2022 as our first female Mini-Mix Driver.
Kendra’s career path has been anything but ordinary. After initially studying Motor Vehicle Studies and Aerospace Engineering at university, she went on to work on weighbridges, gaining multiple HGV licences (including her artic licence during Covid-19). A member of the Communications and Marketing team, Corrine Barber, had the opportunity to visit Kendra and experience a day in the life of a driver – from the concrete batching plant, to trips out on the road making deliveries to a variety of customers.
“Every day is different. The jobs each day present a new challenge, and I like that – it keeps me working hard. I enjoy the communication side of the role, as well and being able to build relationships with existing and new customers.”
When asked how it feels to be one of a few women in the industry, Kendra replied: “I don’t really think about it. It is an industry I have always wanted to be in, and it has always been male dominated, so it is something you get used to and fit in with. I also really like the guys I work with. We all get on so well and have a great level of banter and respect for each other, which ties in with the love I have for this job and the industry.”
Corrine reflected: “I was fortunate to spend the day with Kendra, getting a real insight into what her role involves and how varied each job can be. From vehicle safety checks in the morning, through to deliveries all over Dorset, then back to Woodsford to wash down – it was fascinating to learn about the processes behind preparing for different tasks. She was so welcoming and patient, she’s a real credit to Quarry Products.”
Kendra Dunn – LGV Driver - Concrete Mixer (left) prepares to take Corrine Barber, Communications & Marketing Administrator, out on the road in her Mini-Mix LGV.
New Quarry website
leads brand awareness campaign
Hills’ Communications and Marketing team has been working hard with the Quarry Products division and external developers on the launch of their new website.
The new site’s aim is to increase brand awareness and sales for the division through better user experiences and ongoing search engine optimisation for the era of AI. This will be accompanied by increased social media and promotional activity.
In a YOY comparison, the website has seen a 181.14% increase new users finding the website, and 45.85% increase in returning users.
Steve Huntly, Divisional Managing Director – Quarry Products said: “I am really pleased with the development of the new website. The Quarry team is working closely with the Comms and Marketing team on campaigns to increase revenue through concrete and aggregate sales to professional and DIY markets.”
Chris Waddell, Group Digital and Publications Manager said: “I was delighted when James Cook instructed us to overhaul the Quarry Products’ website. Websites are about giving customers confidence in our brand and this new website will do just that.
“Our team is working hard on creative and technical updates and engaging with experts in search engine optimisation and AI to make sure we keep up with industry standards.”
Brighter communications with CleverLive
In a joint project between the HR, Communications and IT teams, CleverLive TV screens have been rolled out to many of the company’s sites – displaying a variety of employee communications from Wellbeing Hub updates to sitespecific information.
The intention of these screens is to remind employees about important issues such as employee benefits and health and safety, promoting opportunities such as volunteering days, whilst also celebrating successes like contract wins and positive performance reviews.
If you have any bright ideas about what we can feature on the screens at your site, please email comms@hills-group.co.uk or speak to your manager.
Final farewells to colleagues
Sadly, we have to report the passing of former colleagues from the Waste division and long-serving Hills legend, Cyril Hares.
Henry Newbery, Recycling Manager shares his recollections of John Chapman and Kevin Archer. “I have great memories working with John, having shared an office with him when I started at Hills. The sound of “John COPY” ringing out on the radio as his team checked in frequently will never be forgotten. He was kind, caring and approachable gentleman, who assisted and got involved in anything he could to help colleagues and get the job done. From running the MRF and his HRCs (which he always kept in immaculate condition), to negotiating the best rates for supplies and equipment, to taking school tours around the sites, John did it all. It’s for this reason John was held in high regard and was fondly remembered by so many that met him over the years.”
“Kevin started with Hills in 2010 as a HRC Operative, and was TUPE transferred to FCC Environment as the Marlborough HRC Site Supervisor in 2017. Kevin had a great sense of humour and an unforgettable laugh. I think due to this he always had a great rapport with the public at the HRCs and was a great ambassador for Hills.”
Former Group Director – Waste Solutions, Mike Webster sadly passed away in February, after a battle with dementia. Mike worked for the business for 30 years between 1987 and 2017.
Cyril Hares – a true Hills legend
Last year long-serving Hills employee Cyril Hares sadly passed away aged 89 following a short illness.
Cyril’s career with Hills began as an Excavator Driver in the 1960s. He went on to work in a number of roles including as a Customer Account Manager for the waste disposal business, before finally retiring in 2000. Even after retirement, Cyril stayed in constant touch with the company, often sending in fascinating articles and images regarding the company’s history.
As Chairman, Mike Hill reflects: “Cyril was a true Hills legend. Such a likeable, knowledgeable and hardworking chap. He was Hills through and through, and I was saddened to hear news of his passing.”
Chairman, Mike Hill, with Cyril Hares, Peter Moore (former Operations Manager), and former Chairman Robert Hill at a lunch celebrating Cyril’s 75th birthday in 2010.
Henry Newbery, Recycling Manager (left) and Steve Burns, Divisional Director Waste Solutions (right) with John Chapman at his leaving meal in 2018.
Do It Yourself at Hills’ Builders Merchants
…to win a £50 Amazon voucher
Publisher’s Note
intouch is published by The Hills Group Limited. It is distributed to employees, pensioners, shareholders and friends of The Hills Group. Each copy of intouch is collated and mailed by Swindon charity Phoenix Enterprises who work with people recovering from short and long-term mental health problems phoenixenterprises.co.uk.
Issue No 58 will be distributed later this year. Please submit news and photographs to the Communications and Marketing department, either to the address opposite, by telephone 01793 714977 or via email to comms@hills-group.co.uk.
The Hills Group Limited makes every effort to verify all information contained within intouch but does not warrant to its accuracy. No view or opinion expressed within intouch should be considered to be that of The Hills Group Limited, its associated companies or any director or officer in its employment. Please recycle your copy of intouch when you are finished with it. Printed by Mayfield Press on World Land Trust approved Carbon Balanced Papercarbonbalancedpaper.com (CBP020947)
This fantastic photo captures a moment in time in the 1970s at Hills’ Builders Merchants on Kingshill in Swindon (now a housing estate). To be in with a chance of winning one of three £50 Amazon vouchers, all you have to do is find the 10 differences in the two images. Some are easy to find, some are much harder, so good luck!
Circle the 10 differences on image B, add your name, job title and location below, then either photograph or scan this page and email to comms@hills-group.co.uk
Your entry must be received by Friday 26 June.
Location: Name: Job title:
the_hills_group The Hills Group Limited /HillsGroup TheHillsGroup hills.group
The Hills Group Limited, Wiltshire House, County Park Business Centre, Shrivenham Road, Swindon, Wiltshire SN1 2NR
