Atherton waves goodbye to Entatech

After 22 years at the helm, vice president says it is time to take a break

Jon Atherton is spending his last ever day as vice president of Entatech today after surprising the industry by announcing his resignation from the distributor.

He has been at the firm for 22 years and sent around an email announcing his decision, adding that he felt "humble and honoured to have worked for so long in this fantastic company" that "punches above its weight" in the channel.

Speaking to CRN, Atherton (pictured) said the decision was completely amicable and that he was sure to emerge in the industry again soon.

“I actually made the decision to leave weeks ago and people have told me it has been the best-kept secret,” he said. "My phone hasn’t stopped today. I’m feeling a bit tired and am looking forward to having a rest and trying something different. However, I am 100 per cent going to stay in the channel."

He said that a replacement will be starting at the firm next week, but was unable to reveal who that was at the time of publication.

Atherton said one of the highlights of his time at Entatech was watching staff develop over the years.

"One of the greatest things has been seeing staff who worked for me over the years, going on to do bigger and greater things. It is great seeing people progress in the industry and to know that I’ve played a part in their lives.

"Also, when I started at Entatech it was a £1m company, now the group is turning over between £130m and £140m."

He said the first thing he was going to do on his first day of freedom was not answer a work-related email.

"This will be the first time in 12 years that I won’t have to do that. Unfortunately with the benefits that technology brings, none of us really has a day where we can just switch off. I’m looking forward to that, and also being able to spend time with the family. It is going to be an emotional day for me today."