Nimans reshuffles board to become 'more responsive'

Distributor appoints Paula Gillings as managing director in business restructure

Distributor Nimans has reshuffled its board and management set-up in an attempt to streamline the business and make it more responsive.

The firm’s director of communications, Paula Gillings, has been appointed managing director. Gillings joined the Avaya and Mitel distributor five years ago as head of public relations.

The distributor has created several new positions, including head of purchasing, head of business development and head of marketing.

Gillings told CRN: “I have worked with [former managing director] Julian Niman for the past year to put this structure together. The board will consist of myself, Julian Niman and logistics director John Cunningham. Under the board will be the newly created heads [of divisions], with the management team below them.

“We have looked to recruit new employees that do not come from a telecoms background.”

Niman, who will continue in the role of chief executive of Nimans, said: “We have streamlined the board to ensure we can react faster and more decisively. The whole reporting structure is much more responsive.”

Bernie Dodwell, European security manager at rival distributor Westcon, said: “Gillings’s appointment is a bit of a surprise because she was head of public relations.

“Managing directors are normally former marketing directors or business development managers.”

>> Further reading:

Crane elevates Mitel business

BT terminates Nimans deal