Brothwell: ‘It is time to evaluate what I want to do next’

As Exertis Business managing director Jamie Brothwell prepares to step down after a year in the role, CRN finds out about her plans for the future

Exertis Business managing director Jamie Brothwell is stepping down at the end of the month to take some time out and determine where she goes next in her career.

Brothwell was appointed managing director of Exertis Business in November last year but made the decision to step down before the company transitions into new ownership after it was acquired by Germany-based private equity investor AURELIUS in the summer.

CRN caught up with Brothwell at the Exertis Impact Together event in London where UK People Director Jo Lawrence kicked off proceedings by addressing what she labelled the ‘elephant in the room’ over recent rumours of pressures the distributor was experiencing since its takeover over credit lines with certain vendors.

But she insisted that sustainability and DEI is something Exertis will always fight for.

“Sustainability and DEI is core to us as a business. Whatever is going on in the business, our voice will never be silenced,” Lawrence said.

Brothwell says she is very proud of what Exertis has achieved during the 11 years she has worked there.

“I am really proud of Exertis, and we are recognised as a front runner in terms of the specialist channels we represent, along with our social leadership in DEI and sustainability.

“I leave one year after our restructure where we have embedded our six specialisms of AV, Components, IT Solutions Mobile Solutions, Print and Consumer – with that business achieving 12.5 per cent growth year-to-date despite a challenged UK market,” she explains.

“We are on an upward trajectory, and with the new ownership it seemed the right time for me to evaluate what I wanted to do with my life. I wish everyone at Exertis the very best of success for the future. They are my friends and family, and I feel emotional talking about it.”

Brothwell added childhood experiences had shaped her determination to succeed, and she woke up one morning knowing the time was right to move on.

“I’m in a fortunate position – I don’t have dependents, and I have made smart decisions that mean I can choose what I want to do next,” she says.

“One of my earliest memories as a child was having our house repossessed, but now I have security.

“I always wanted to achieve three things: become managing director, win CRN Distributor of the Year, and make the CRN A-list – and I have achieved all three plus many other accolades including DE&I Distributor of the Year three times in the past 24 months.

“I have always wanted to make a difference and believe we have built an amazing foundation for the future. I will continue to be an ambassador for Exertis and believe they will prosper in years to come from those foundations,” she adds.

CRN understands that Brothwell’s role is not being replaced directly but instead will be split into several different roles.

Looking ahead Brothwell says she is excited to see what the future holds.

“I don’t really want to do distribution anymore, but of course I’m open to the right opportunities that come along.

“I’m sure something will feel right, and hopefully my track record will speak for itself.”

In an internal announcement, Phill Turner, chief commercial officer at Exertis, said of Brothwell’s departure: “Jamie has been instrumental in championing Exertis and our inclusive culture and has helped us win numerous awards.

“Jamie leaves the specialisms in Business on an upward trajectory with momentum building, and strong partner relationships and sentiment.

“Never far from a microphone at a work event, Jamie’s enthusiasm and straight-talking has inspired many of us to strive for excellence.

“She’s certainly had an impact both on our business and our industry.

“We are incredibly grateful for Jamie’s dedication and hard work over the past 10 years and wish her all the best for the future.”