Quorum Marks the End of an Era!
The retirement of Ian Rees and Trevor Hirst from Quorum, on 31st March, 2023, has marked the end of an era.
If either of them were a stick of rock they would have the name Quorum running through their very core. So, before we let them go, we did some digging into what made their time at Quorum so very special, and naturally we asked the ‘what’s next?’ question. Here’s what they said.
“Quorum is my baby, so it is difficult to tear myself away. However, the company has ‘grown-up’.”
Ian Rees
…at the helm
Ian has been at the Quorum helm since he founded the business in 2000.
Initially working as an independent consultant, he had always dreamed of building a company recognised for its ability to meet the ILS needs of the Defence Industry. Hence, Quorum Logistic Support Limited was created and began to thrive.
“The new management team is complete, and they’re ready to take the reins and drive Quorum forward into a an even brighter era of prosperity.”
Ian Rees
Quorum’s former Operations Director
He reflected, “Quorum is my baby, so it is difficult to tear myself away. However, the company has ‘grown-up’. Today it is known as an impressive and reliable ILS consultancy which has successfully transitioned to benefit from being an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).
“Mine and Trevor’s work is done here. Now is the right time to move on. All the prep with the new management team is complete, and they’re ready to take the reins and drive Quorum forward into a an even brighter era of prosperity.”
“I’ve had the opportunity to work with brilliant customers and have lots of fun along the way”
…successful growth, great banter
“We’ve risen to many challenges in the 23 years I’ve been here. I’ve had the opportunity to work with brilliant customers and lots of fun along the way – although many of our stories will ‘stay on tour’,” Ian laughed.
“Quorum is known for being resourceful, flexible and reliable, as well as having great ‘banter’. Today we’re a valued ILS provider across land, sea and air and living proof that our civilian colleagues, as well as our ex-forces personnel from the army, navy and RAF can all work and play in harmony!”
In July 2008, Quorum celebrated its successful growth by moving into its newly built offices in Hadley, Shropshire. “The buildings, called Quantum, Lambda and Sigma are a scientifically named nod to Quorum Logistic Support,” explained Ian, “The offices were officially opened on a rainy summer’s day (Quorum umbrellas on show) by Major General CC Wilson CBE.
“Quantum house remains Quorum’s HQ and training hub, although today our fabulous team are hybrid working throughout the UK, as well as on customer sites.”
….sailing into the sunset?
Ian has confirmed he isn’t sailing into the sunset quite yet. He loves keeping busy. In fact, some of you may not know that Ian has owned and managed both an equestrian centre and a bed and breakfast, whilst continuing his role at Quorum.
“But no more horses and B&Bs,” he stressed, “because I want the flexibility to set sail some of the time. Travelling to Iceland, seeing the Northern Lights, as well as heading to the Far East, especially Vietnam, are on the list of initial destinations.
“I love being active and challenged,” he confirmed, “and retirement is an opportunity to focus on one of my great passions – property development. I’ve a 7-year house project which I’m excited to say is close to finishing. Plus, I’m currently looking for a ‘doer upper’ as my next project.
““It may be the end of an era, but it also marks the start of new and exciting adventures for all of us,” concluded Ian.”
Ian Rees
Trevor Hirst
…20 years’ service, nearly!
Trevor joined the Quorum team in its early days, helping the company build its brand and reputation. Initially working on land vehicle projects, Trevor said, “It turns out that I am retiring one week short of my 20th work anniversary at Quorum.
When Ian offered me the job back in 2003, I thought it was a transitional step, how wrong I was! “I joined the army at 16, and at 40 years of age, I joined Quorum.
“It was exciting times, and we were growing fast having won the fantastic opportunity to work as a prime on the support vehicle programme, which continued for many years.”
Trevor Hirst
Quorum’s former Technical Director
My time here has been a fascinating and fruitful steppingstone to the next chapter of my life. And, it’s not surprising I’ve stayed for the duration because supporting veterans and reservists and offering great career progression for ILS professionals is another reason why it’s a great place to work.
“In my first role, I was sent back the Ministry of Defence facilities at Abbey Wood as temporary cover for my old army role. Gamekeeper come poacher, everyone was talking about Quorum and not realising I had moved over. It was exciting times, and we were growing fast, having won the fantastic opportunity to work as a prime on the support vehicle programme, which continued for many years.”
“When Ian offered me the job back in 2003, I thought it was a transitional step, how wrong I was!”
…epilogue
When it comes to Trevor’s ‘what’s next?’ he has been sharing lots of insights on social media ahead of his ‘last day at school’. Which means you can also follow him and his next exciting chapters on LinkedIn
Trevor has always been an energy powerhouse. Anyone who’s worked with him would be more shocked if he was planning a quiet retirement. Non-Executive Directorships, charity sports events, coaching, working as Magistrate and studying are all on the agenda and we’re sure there is more.
He added, “Retiring from Quorum marks the end of an era, but also the start of an exciting future. And no surprise I’ve been planning! I’m going to be building on my passion for engineering and my ILS and business experience and demonstrating my commitment to sharing the values and ethics I live by.”
Trevor concluded, “I am confident that the Quorum brand and future is in safe hands, and I wish them and all our customers a bright future.”
Quorum extends its heartfelt thanks to Ian and Trevor for their hard work and commitment to building a business which we are all proud of.
Good luck in your future plans guys!
Ask about support from Quorum – Book an informal chat with Shaun
+44 (0)1952 671950
Your support engineering insights…
Register for the latest news, direct to your mailbox!
