When he took over from his predecessor in 2013, Andrew Willgress wasted no time in expanding the horological side of the H S Walsh business.
It was time well spent; Andrew now deals with Rolex, Breitling and Richemont directly, and the company was delighted to be granted a Royal Warrant to Her Majesty the Queen earlier this year.
Over the past 12 months, he has also focused on nurturing customer relationships – an aspect of his role that gives him particular satisfaction. “I have a determination to be reliable and the best in the business for customer sales and after-sales service, but it helps that I’m friendly and personable by nature and this promotes loyalty between the company and our customers,” he explains.
Indeed, over the years Andrew has learned that honesty and impeccable service are two of the most important aspects of the business – as well as technical knowledge, which he continues to expand upon.
Another recent achievement has particular resonance for him, and that is the forging of relationships with schools and colleges.
Not only does he have two children himself – a boy and a girl, aged seven and 12 respectively – Andrew has a particularly keen understanding of the importance of opportunities for young people. “I spent the years between the age of 13 and 30 in the Air Cadets and latterly was involved as a volunteer Civilian Instructor in the Air Training Corps, taking groups of youngsters for flying, gliding and adventure training,” he enthuses.
“Oh, and I’m also the resident DJ at a local nightclub every other Friday night, and have been enjoying this for 19 years!” What a dark horse.
