MARLBANK man John Maguire, the long serving managing director of Belleek Pottery, has announced his resignation after 32 years with the business.
The Belleek Pottery Group, which also owns Galway Irish Crystal, announced the news over the weekend. The company is, arguably, Fermanagh’s best known brand and one of the county’s biggest employers.
Mr Maguire who has held the position since 1993 announced his departure to staff last Friday and he will leave the business at the end of this month.
Commenting on his decision to step down Mr Maguire said, “Having spent 32 years in this business I have decided that it is time for a change.
“My entire career has been forged at Belleek and I consider myself extremely lucky to have been chosen to lead the business back in 1993.
“My 26 years at the helm of the Belleek Pottery have given me opportunities that few people in business ever experience.
“I have worked with immensely talented colleagues and craftspeople, forged close relationships with giftware and tableware retailers across the world and navigated this business through many changes and challenges.
Now aged 55 years he feels that it is the right time for a new challenge.
“While I will certainly be taking time out over the next few months to take stock, I am sure that 2020 will present me with new opportunities to explore,” he said. He added that leaving the world renowned pottery was tinged with sadness.
“But I leave this business optimistic for its future. As it has done since 1857, Belleek continues to offer retailers, consumers and visitors alike a unique proposition. I look forward to watching the business go from strength to strength in the future,” said Mr Maguire.
Belleek Pottery’s most recent accounts show that it reported an increased turnover for the 12 months to March 2019 of £9.6 million (€11.25m) but a slight dip in pre-tax profits which fell to £299,528.
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