Alison Wheelock, managing director of food industry training company Verner Wheelock Associates Ltd (VWA), has completed the acquisition of the company from its founders. The transaction sees Ms Wheelock buying out her parents’ shares in the family business.
Claire Lennon, VWA’s former business development executive, has been appointed to the position of sales director, and will play a major role beside Alison on the management team.
Verner Wheelock Associates Ltd was established 35 years ago in 1990 by Dr Verner Wheelock and his wife, Jan Wheelock. The company delivers award-winning HACCP, food safety, auditing and specialist food industry training to hundreds of delegates every year – many from well-known food manufacturers.
Alison Wheelock joined the family business 20 years ago, rising to managing director in 2012. Under her leadership VWA has experienced exponential growth not only in profit, but in the variety of training courses offered and their methods of delivery.
She has also orchestrated the rise of a successful ethical audit department following the acquisition of KSSA (Keith Stamp Social Auditing LLP) in 2018 – the same year VWA attained ISO9001 status.
Claire Lennon began work at VWA in 2010 and has been at the heart of the company ever since. Her experience, drive and enthusiasm make her the ideal choice to join the management team.
She said: “I am very proud and greatly honoured to have been appointed to the role of sales director with Verner Wheelock. I have worked with Alison and the team for 15 years and this next step in our journey builds on the hard work and dedication I have seen and been part of.
“I will continue to work closely with Alison to help shape the future of the business as we continue to strive to deliver the best food industry training in the UK and overseas.”
Alison said: “Claire is a welcome addition to the management team, and we will work side by side to continue to grow the business. Her experience and dedication are an asset to VWA, as is her ability to build a strong rapport with customers and trainers alike.”
Preparations are already underway for Verner Wheelock Associates’ 35th anniversary in September.