Well-qualified manager in technology and commerce

Press, 12 September 1986, Page 6

Well-qualified manager in technology and commerce

Mr Reece Huston, the managing director of Accord Electroplating, Ltd, became interested in the company while he was working there during the school holidays for his father. At that time, there were only four staff members and cadmium was the only finish offered. Mr Huston attended Christchurch Boys’ High School and the University of Canterbury where he graduated as Bachelor of Commerce. His commercial experience was gained in an accountant’s office, but the developing field of computers tempted him away. Five years in Wellington were spent with Mobil Oil and Databank, where as a systems consultant Mr Huston had wide-rang-ing responsibilities and a busy career. He joined his family business in 1972, which by

then had a staff of 15. Since then, fourteen years experience in electroplating have been added to the original commercial background, making Mr Huston a very capable leader. He has been responsible for much of the diversification and forward-plan-ning over the years. This culminated in a strong period of growth for the company, leading to the take-over of Armstrong and Farr, Ltd, two years ago. With a staff now of more than 50, the amalgamation and relocation of the two businesses has been a complex operation, Mr Huston says. He feels, however, that most teething troubles are behind them and Accord is entering a period of consolidation. With new processes and better plant and equipment, Mr Huston looks to the future with optimism.