Warrington’s Breathe Technologies has appointed a new MD as it harnesses a “seismic shift” in the retail industry.
It’s part of a major rebrand and restructure at the company, which has brought its Conveyor Networks and imio Software operations under the Breathe Technologies name.
The new MD is Claire Umney, who joins from AEB, where she spent more than a decade in senior positions, including General Manager and Strategic Initiatives Director. She’s also held roles at CEVA Logistics and TNT.
Her arrival means that David Carroll will become CEO, to take a more “strategic and supportive role.”
“2020 saw a seismic shift in the retail industry, and we’ve seen just how important the ability to adapt and change quickly is,” he explained.
“The future of automated handling solutions lies in flexibility and adaptability, and AI-led systems will soon become the norm. We’re increasingly seeing software at the heart of the warehouse. We want to ensure that our brand reflects the broad-ranging high-tech solutions and software we offer.
“Claire’s 20+ years’ experience in logistics, supply chain and technology, particularly her background in supporting customers with designing and deploying logistics solutions, as well as her business management experience for an international software solutions company, makes her the perfect fit to take Breathe Technologies forward. She has energy in abundance, a clear desire to provide a great customer experience, and a tenacity to make things happen.”
Breathe Technologies works with clients including QVC, Pets at Home, Amazon, Yodel, Ultimate Products, Unilever, and Johnson & Johnson.
“The managing director role really excited me as I am entrusted to continue David’s legacy and lead the continued growth and development of the business and its people. The company’s collective skillset and obvious commitment to continued success gives us a solid foundation and a great platform to move onwards,” added Umney.
“I want to help us realise our full potential and become the automatic choice for all customers considering automation solutions, both hardware and software. My aim is to make sure that we’re rightly recognised as innovators in the industries that we operate in; through building strong, long-term, mutually advantageous partnerships, but also by driving green initiatives and placing our environmental responsibilities at the forefront. Breathe Technologies has an extremely exciting future, and it has been incredibly easy to become invested in the journey.”
