CMYK Europe appoints service manager following official launch
CMYK Europe, the new branch of wide-format supplier CMYUK, has announced Konrad Zawieska as its new European service manager, as part of the group’s expansion beyond its home market
Alex Pollard from RMC Digital Print has won the Rising Star Award at this year’s HEY Business Awards after joining the company as an apprentice in 2020
Alex Pollard, senior contracts manager at wide-format trade supplier company, RMC Digital Print, has been crowned the winner of the Rising Star Award at this year’s Hull and East Yorkshire (HEY) Business Awards.
Pollard started working at RMC Digital five years ago as an apprentice, shortly after leaving school. Since then, he has risen through the ranks to become a full-time contract manager, subsequently earning a senior position at the company while still in his twenties.
The HEY Business Awards, which took place last week (November 20th), aims to celebrate innovation and outstanding achievements in in its local area.
On the website for the awards, the Rising Star category is described as celebrating those who have “heaps of potential and are already making a difference in their businesses – a leader of the future and the ‘one to watch.’”
Speaking about Pollard, the judges for the Rising Star Award said: “Alex is a very deserved winner of this category.
“He has demonstrated clear progression from apprentice through to senior level, showing growth in his responsibilities and success at every stage. Alex was modest during his interview but came across as extremely passionate about his industry, and he’s actively encouraging others to join it.”
In a post on LinkedIn following his award, Pollard said: “Really proud moment for me last night, coming away with the Rising Star Award at the HEY Business Awards – made even more special by having my family there and everyone who’s supported me since the beginning.
“Next week I’ll be celebrating five years [at] RMC Digital Print – half a decade of learning, growing, and increased caffeine consumption. Very grateful for all my colleagues, mentors, and friends who have helped shape me into the person I am today.”
The news is indicative of a wider push to promote younger people into the print and signage industries, both of which are often assumed to be ageing industries with a dwindling pool of young talent.
In November alone, KGK Genix announced the appointment of a new junior project manager following the completion of a student initiative, Isabel Shanahan has progressed to project co-ordinator at Imageco, and FASTSIGNS announced a new branch in Bristol which will be run by a 24-year-old.
A number of schemes have also been launched in recent years to encourage and champion young professionals, including FESPA UK’s Next Generation initiative, in which Pollard serves as a Committee member.
As part of the initiative, FESPA UK announced the launch of its Next Gen Supported Learning project earlier this year, a fully funded work placement programme designed to connect young people with career opportunities in the print, signage, and graphics industries.
