Prime Highlights

• Allan Brothers has appointed Linzi Jo Watson as its first female production manager, leading factory operations in Berwick.
• The promotion coincides with Women in Construction Week, highlighting the company’s commitment to encouraging more women into manufacturing and leadership roles.

Key Facts

• Watson will oversee the full production process, managing over 50 operatives and ensuring products meet quality and safety standards.
• Allan Brothers, founded in 1811, employs 87 people and produces customised timber and aluminium-clad windows and doors, with several women already in senior management roles.

Background

Allan Brothers has appointed its first female production manager in its more than 200-year history. Linzi Jo Watson will now lead factory operations at the Berwick-based timber window and door manufacturer.

Watson will take responsibility for the full production process, from the delivery of raw timber to machine operations, assembly, and finishing. She will oversee more than 50 operatives and ensure products leave the factory meeting strict quality and safety standards.

The company announced her promotion to coincide with Women in Construction Week, held from March 1 to 7. The move highlights Allan Brothers’ efforts to encourage more women to enter the manufacturing sector.

Watson began her career in women’s fashion before joining Allan Brothers 17 years ago as a customer service assistant. Over time, she progressed through several roles, including planning and logistics manager, internal sales and planning manager, and, most recently, production section and planning manager. Her wide experience across the business prepared her for the senior leadership role.

She said she takes pride in leading the factory and enjoys the daily challenges of managing schedules, stock, and health and safety standards. She described the journey as a major learning experience supported by her team.

Managing director Morten Bach Valsted praised her leadership and deep understanding of the company’s operations, from initial customer quote to final delivery. He said her appointment will play a key role in achieving the firm’s ambitious growth plans this year.

Allan Brothers, founded in 1811, is regarded as the UK’s longest-established joinery specialist. The company employs 87 people and produces customised timber and aluminium-clad windows and doors. It also has other women in senior management roles, including commercial director Charlotte Whelan and commercial office manager Carol Bruce, reflecting its broader commitment to workplace diversity.