SO Modular, the timber frame construction specialist, has strengthened its team with a new senior appointment – commercial manager, Gareth Whitney – as it continues to expand its fast-growing, innovative and sustainable business.

Whitney has joined the innovative, Welsh company to manage its commercial department and explore new commercial opportunities for the firm, as it gears up to increase production by 700% at its modular manufacturing facility in Milland Road, Neath.

Whitney comes to the role with 20 years’ experience within the construction industry: 17 years as an established quantity surveyor/commercial manager and three years as a senior quantity surveyor.

During this time, he has worked for well-known construction firms Persimmon Homes, David McLean Homes, D&K Carpentry Contractors and, most recently, J.G. Hale Construction.

Gareth Whitney, newly appointed commercial manager at SO Modular, said:

“This is a very exciting time to be taking on the role of commercial manager at SO Modular. The company’s new facility is ready to make the dramatic seven-fold leap in production capacity, so I am very keen to start developing new commercial opportunities and connections for the firm.

“Sustainability in building design and construction is vital if we are to start addressing our impact on the environment, so the future for innovative, sustainable, eco-friendly homes is incredibly bright. The way that SO Modular looks to improve its own carbon footprint at every turn is inspiring, and the way it is constantly looking to innovate makes the company very forward-thinking. This ethos is something that especially excites me about the company and my new role within it.”

Charlotte Hale, operations director at SO Modular, said:

“It’s great to have someone with Gareth’s extensive experience on board at SO Modular. Gareth understands the construction industry inside and out and is passionate about ensuring the future of construction is sustainable. As such, we are sure he will do an excellent job working to develop our commercial opportunities and connections.”