FEM’s coup: Simmonds signs up for new sales role

BDM will build on success in casual dining and contract catering sectors

FEM has pulled off something of a coup with the latest addition to its sales team.  Steve Simmonds is one of the best known faces in the catering equipment industry, having worked on the distributor side of the business for over 22 years.  Most recently he was with Nisbets, for the past nine years and, before that, with Bunzl Lockhart for over eight years.

Steve has joined FEM as Business Development Manager, responsible for London and the South of England.  This is a new position, expanding the FEM sales team, and he will be working alongside FEM Sales Manager Martin Shaw in the region.  Steve’s last position at Nisbets was National Accounts Manager – Restaurants.  At FEM, as well as growing relationships with key strategic distributors, he will use his expertise and extensive contacts in the casual dining and contract catering areas to help increase the company’s market share in these sectors.

“I’m really looking forward to getting stuck into my new job,” he says.  “I’ll be developing the relationships with people I’ve dealt with during my career, as well as building new relationships, and in the process growing the brands and products in the FEM portfolio.  I believe my experience gives me a real empathy with distributors, I know what their requirements are, because I’ve been there!  I can’t wait to start my new role and see a new side of the catering industry.”

Outside of work Steve is married with two children and loves sport – especially golf and rugby.

“Steve brings a different approach and experience to the team, as well as specialist insight into market sectors where we are currently experiencing significant growth,” says Mark Hogan, Commercial Director at FEM.  “The timing of his appointment is perfect and we are delighted to have attracted a professional of his calibre.”