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James Bates appointed Managing Director of Rapid Electronics

James Bates Outside BuildingThe new Managing Director of Rapid Electronics, James Bates, feels there are ‘huge opportunities for growth’ at the electronic components distributor.

Bates has a wealth of industry experience, having worked for RS Components for over a decade in a variety of management roles. At RS he achieved significant success in Industry and Corporate sales as well as gaining extensive knowledge of e-procurement solutions. He joins the Colchester-based distributor with a brief to drive improvement and performance across all areas of the business and create plans for the next evolution of Rapid’s proposition.

“I am very excited to be joining Rapid Electronics”, said Bates. “Rapid has a great reputation in its key markets, and is agile and flexible enough to respond to the challenges and changing conditions of the electronics industry. There are huge opportunities for growth here, and a great team of people who are passionate about the company.”

“Rapid has the ability to become the leading player in new technology distribution and has the technical expertise and operational structure to support this. Rapid’s focus on great customer service is fundamental to its success and this gives us a great platform on which to build.”

“My background is in Sales so I understand the huge importance of customer relationships”, says Bates. “It is important that Rapid works closely with our customers and supply partners to bring exciting new products to market quickly and competitively. I began my career in the industry as a Design Engineer so I am aware of the technologies, mindset, financial and working environment of our customers.”

Rapid has built a strong reputation within the electronics industry for its competitive pricing, fast fulfilment times and high service levels. It became part of the Conrad Group in 2012, and has since increased its product inventory, signed numerous franchise partnerships and expanded into new markets.

James Bell, Managing Director of Conrad International, Sales and Marketing, said: “I am delighted to welcome James to Rapid. He brings a wealth of managerial experience within electronics distribution, knows the industry inside out and has a proven track record of customer-focused initiatives. His leadership skills, vision and energy made him the outstanding candidate. Rapid is now well placed to drive for growth within its chosen segments and will benefit from James’s experience within distribution.”

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