OPICO has appointed Jon Tyrrell as Operations Manager ahead of the imminent retirement of Jim Leeson who has worked for the company for the past 36 years.

Jim Leeson first started work at OPICO when it was based at Spalding in the old Howard Rotovator factory and the main product sold was the Hesston pea cutter, supplied to many local farms for cutting vining peas.

OPICO’s MD James Woolway remarks: “Although Jim started off in the sales office, his role has developed to one of being a key lynch pin in the whole company’s operation. Over the past few years Jim has been even busier, running the day-to-day operations whilst overseeing the company’s move to, and subsequent refurbishment of, its new home in Bourne, a former aluminium foundry.

“Jim’s experience and knowledge has been more invaluable than ever during what has been a large upheaval in a very busy and buoyant time for the company,” says Mr Woolway.

Jon Tyrrell who took over Jim’s role on the 1st of January this year has been working for OPICO since May 2010, gradually gathering experience by spending time in each department that he has now taken on responsibility for. As operations manager, Jon will be in charge of the day-to-day running of OPICO’s UK base at Bourne. He will be responsible for the supply chain of machines - from placing orders with manufacturers to organising assembly and delivering to dealers and customers. He will also manage the health and safety policy.

“Whilst it is sad to see Jim retire, we wish him all the best for his retirement and I am sure that Jon will soon build up the same relationships and camaraderie with our dealers, customers and suppliers,” comments Mr Woolway.

Prior to joining OPICO, Jon was operations manager for fresh produce company Flamingo, where he oversaw the import of cut flowers from Kenya into UK supermarkets. “Whilst the end product is quite different, when you break it down, the same principles apply,” says Jon. “Although my career has diverted me away from agriculture for a few years, I did attend Shuttleworth Agricultural College and I come from a farming background, so I do understand the seasonality and importance of OPICO’s business.”

Jim Leeson will be retiring at the end of March. Until then, both Jon and Jim can be contacted on 01778 391666.