Okarno, the leading supply chain and fulfilment partner within the Saint-Gobain group, has appointed Ross Baxter as Managing Director “to spearhead its next phase of growth.”
Ross brings over twenty years of experience in logistics and commercial leadership, and is focused on positioning Okarno “for accelerated growth and strengthening its role as the supply chain partner of choice for builders’ merchants, decorator centres and DIY retailers.”
Ross and the senior management team will focus on three strategic priorities: delivering outstanding customer service and flexible supply chain solutions; driving innovation across the product range and logistics management; and strengthening Okarno’s position as the “preferred supply chain partner for Saint-Gobain’s sister brands.”
The business offers a wide range of “essential construction and DIY products” from well-known brands such as Gyproc, Thistle, Weber, and Blue Hawk. Ross will build on Okarno’s solid foundation by leveraging logistics expertise and expanding market reach to introduce new products and services. This will increase choices and enhance the overall experience for customers and partners.
Furthermore, this appointment comes at a crucial time for Okarno, as the company strengthens its market position following a recent rebrand and its commitment to providing exceptional customer service.
Before joining Saint-Gobain in 2011 as Commercial Director for Pasquill, Ross worked for a global construction and power tools manufacturer, where he developed his expertise in logistics and supply chain management. His specialisation in logistics, combined with his hands-on experience across multiple business functions, “aligns perfectly with Okarno’s mission to provide flexible, reliable supply chain solutions.”
Ross commented: “I’m delighted to be leading Okarno during this transformative period. Our priority is to act as a true supply chain partner for our customers, offering everything from single parcels to full pallets with rapid turnaround, combined with a customer-centric culture and service mindset.
“We’re investing in modern warehouse management systems integrated with our ERP to support real-time distribution, while maintaining our commitment to sustainability and operational excellence.”
He continued: “As part of Saint-Gobain’s Lead and Grow strategy, we’re focused on nurturing long-term relationships with customers and building Okarno’s reputation as the most reliable, flexible supply chain solution in our sector. Our focus is on strengthening Okarno’s position as the supply-chain partner of choice for our Saint-Gobain sister brands.”
In addition, the appointment reinforces Okarno’s strategic importance within the Saint-Gobain group, where it serves as a crucial distribution and logistics hub supporting the group’s diverse portfolio of building materials and construction solutions brands.
To find out more about Okarno products and services, visit: www.okarno.com
