Fischer Panda recruits new sales manager to grow UK marine business

Fischer Panda UK has recruited Craig Gutteridge as the company’s new marine sales manager.

Gutteridge was previously divisional director of Rutherford Marine in Johannesburg, the sole distributor of Mercury outboards and MerCruiser inboards. He now joins the Fischer Panda UK team at its Verwood, Dorset, headquarters.

“Fischer Panda UK not only offers industry-leading, quality engineered equipment, but being part of an amazing team with years of experience attracted me to this role,” says Gutteridge. “Fischer Panda UK already has a solid foundation in the UK and I look forward to expanding these current opportunities, but also developing new business interests in submarkets by offering our entire integrated solutions. Trade shows are great networking events and I am excited to introduce myself to the British marine industry and establish new relationships.

“I aim to maximise our sales opportunities during these challenging new and existing business environments, whilst building relationships with our current customer base and new potential markets.”

Gutteridge says the appeal of the UK’s marine industry was also a significant factor in his decision to return to the country.

“There is certainly a difference between the South Africa marine industry and UK,” he adds, “not only the size of the market being that much bigger in the UK, but the range of applications for the incredible marine product available for the modern marine industry. The environment in South Africa is more volatile and I see the growth potential for the marine industry as very positive in this country, with more opportunities for my family and their future.”