Two dedicated members of the After Sales Team at Summerfield Homes are celebrating a combined 50 years of service, marking a remarkable milestone for the Taunton-based, family-run developer.
Between them, Build Quality and After Sales Manager Jim Wheeler and After Sales Supervisor Ian Cassling have spent five decades helping homeowners across the South West, ensuring customers continue to receive exceptional support long after they move into their new homes.
For Jim, the milestone marks more than 40 years with the wider Summerfield business. He first joined as an apprentice with Stansell Builders, which later became the development arm of Summerfield, arriving at the company’s South Road headquarters with his parents to sign his apprenticeship papers – a tradition at the time.
Starting as a labourer, Jim went on to qualify as a painter and decorator before returning to college to gain management qualifications. One of the highlights of his career was overseeing the construction of a block of flats in Teignmouth – a project the company was so proud of that it arranged for colleagues to travel together to see the finished development. Jim joined Summerfield Homes in 2001 and now leads the company’s Build Quality and After Sales team. Outside work, he enjoys spending time with his six grandchildren.
Ian has also built a long and successful career with Summerfield Homes. Joining the business in 2007 as a labourer, he worked his way through the company to become After Sales Supervisor, a role that sees him working directly with homeowners to resolve any issues and ensure they enjoy the very best experience in their new homes.
For Ian, the greatest reward comes from helping customers. “Every day brings something different and I enjoy the challenge that comes with the role,” he said. “The best part is knowing you’ve solved a problem and left a customer happy. That feeling of achievement never gets old.”
Jim added: “I’ve seen the business grow and evolve over the years, but one thing has always stayed the same – the commitment to quality and looking after our customers. I’m proud to have been part of that journey.”
James Holyday, Managing Director of Summerfield Homes, said: “Jim and Ian have made an enormous contribution to Summerfield over many years. Their knowledge, dedication and commitment to delivering excellent customer service are invaluable, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they have done. Reaching a combined 50 years of service is a fantastic achievement and one we are delighted to celebrate.”
As a long-established family business, Summerfield believes its people are at the heart of its success, with the long service of colleagues such as Jim and Ian reflecting the company’s commitment to quality, continuity and customer care.