Supplier News
UK – IOA appoints Martin Cookson
By Phil - 20 June 2013The IOA Group, the UK’s largest independent machine operator, has announced the appointment of experienced industry figure Martin Cookson to the post of National Sales Executive.
Mr. Cookson, who boasts over 30-years experience holding senior executive positions with leading organisations including Crown Leisure, Stretton Leisure, Mecca and Buckingham Bingo, will be responsible for developing and implementing the IOA Group’s sales and marketing strategies and will report directly to Group CEO Peter Weir.
Mr. Cookson said: “I am delighted to be joining the IOA Group which is a highly regarded operator with a proven track record of delivering industry best cash box figures on behalf of their customers. The majority of my career has been spent working in the single site side of the business and I look forward to re-engaging with those customers and companies that I have worked alongside previously. To represent the IOA Group and be responsible for helping to develop the business going forward represents a new and extremely exciting challenge.”
Peter Weir added: “I am delighted to welcome Martin to the IOA team and look forward to working with him on the implementation of our new three year business development strategy. Every organisation benefits from an addition of new people with new influences and new ideas and I believe that Martin will make a big contribution to the business. I would also like to pay credit to his predecessor Ken Mullarkey who leaves his post after six years in which he has helped the IOA to grow and then consolidate its position in the market. Ken will play a major part in Martin’s induction programme before taking up his new role at SE Leisure. On behalf of the IOA Group I would like to record our thanks and to wish Ken the very best.”