Expect Distribution appoints head of HR, as family run business invests in its people and eyes growth opportunities

Following a successful period of growth for Bradford-based, family run logistics and warehousing company Expect Distribution, the business has appointed Sophie Metcalf to the new role of Head of HR.

The appointment signals a strategic focus on celebrating the people at the heart of Expect Distribution, as the business readies for growth in 2021 and beyond.

In her new role as Head of HR, Sophie will carve out strategic short-, medium- and long-term plans to develop Expect’s people and practices, creating and fostering brand advocacy from within. Metcalf brings with her over 15 years of experience in human resources and mentoring, and using this expertise, she will spearhead the business’s internal and external corporate CSR initiatives.

Initial focuses include supporting Expect’s apprentices and growing its apprenticeship programme, mentoring new graduates and University placement students, tackling the gender and skills gaps within the warehousing, logistics and distribution industries, and supporting in strengthening the business’s relationships with local charities such as Centrepoint, The Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice and The Overgate Hospice.

Neil Rushworth, Managing Director at Expect Distribution, says,

“We are delighted to bring Sophie on board. Expect has always prided itself on its family values and the team is what makes the business the success it is today, so it is only right that we nurture those in return. The loyalty we receive from our employees is unparalleled, something which is demonstrated by our internal long service awards, at which many of the team have been rewarded for 10, and even 20, years of dedication.

“Despite the challenging environment we have found ourselves in of late, we have seen outstanding growth in the last 12-24 months and so as we move forward, it is paramount that we continue to put our team first. Appointing Sophie will allow us to do this.”

Commenting on her appointment, Sophie Metcalf, from Scissett says,

“I am really pleased to be joining Expect Distribution as Head of HR. It is an exciting place to be and coming to work in a business that celebrates its people and recognises their talent is a great opportunity. I’m looking forward to supporting the growth of the business in an organisation that really values the employees, as well as the customers.”

Expect Distribution continues to grow and develop its team, with recent new client wins resulting in the creation of jobs in the local community. Metcalf has previously worked in a variety of human resourcing roles for SimplyBiz and Versus Arthritis, to name but a few.