Pentel’s well-respected director of sales for UK and Ireland, Graham Craik has retired after a long career in the world of stationery.
After 13 years at Pentel UK, Graham’s last day was Tuesday (28 January) and he celebrated with colleagues at the Swindon office before jetting off to Costa Rica for a well-earned holiday.
Graham has worked in the stationery sector since the early 90s, in sales roles at Tipp-Ex, BIC, Staedtler, Helix Trading and at Pentel for the last 13 years. He has a passion for writing instruments and has chaired the Writing Instruments Association until July last year.
“Although it’s an over-used cliché Graham really is a legend in the industry, who has earned the respect, admiration and trust of colleagues, customers and competitors throughout his long career in the world of stationery,” said Wendy Vickery, marketing manager. “We count ourselves fortunate to have worked with Graham and to have benefited from his extensive knowledge, insight, wisdom and his incomparable work ethic. We all wish him the very best for the future.”
Managing director, Hideki Hayama added: “I’d like to thank Graham very much for his contribution to Pentel UK over almost 13 years. As the director of sales he has been on the front line as the face of Pentel, representing our company and our brand to the entire stationery industry. His hard work and dedication on our behalf will always be appreciated. And now, as Graham enters his ‘second life’, we wish him and his family good health and happiness for the future.”
Top: Graham Craik (left) with Hideki Hayama.
