Family-run industrial doors manufacturer hands over the reins to next generation

Nick Hart has been appointed as managing director of industrial doors manufacturer Hart Door Systems, in a move that will see him take over from his father, Doug Hart.

Hart Door Systems, based in Newcastle, is a long-established and pioneering designer and manufacturer of commercial and industrial doors. After 50 years at the helm, Doug Hart has stepped down as managing director and taken the role of Chairman to hand the position of managing director to his son, Nick Hart.

The firm was founded in 1946 by Nick Hart’s grandfather, Norman Hart and was originally a manufacturer of awnings and blinds.

In his new role Nick will be responsible for further driving the company’s export strategy forward and strengthening the company’s presence in key markets including food and drink processing, pharmaceuticals, airports and waste management.

Hart Door Systems brings generations of engineering experience and product innovation expertise to its customers across the world, helping them to take control of their business environments and ensuring that they can operate productively, efficiently, safely and securely.

Nick Hart, managing director at Hart Door Systems, said: “It has certainly been an interesting start to my role, as taking over during the coronavirus pandemic was not how I’d planned my first few weeks in charge!

“It has been a challenge to lead the company through this crisis but I am extremely proud of how Hart’s workforce has performed. Demonstrating flexibility and professionalism, we’ve remained operational and have really pulled together to get through these difficult circumstances.

“I’m looking forward to taking the company through the changes that the pandemic will no doubt dictate but also building on our recent export successes and serving key sectors that we work with, including food and drink, pharmaceuticals, airports and energy from waste.

“It’s a real honour to take over the family business, as it has always been my ambition to further the work that my father and grandfather have done in establishing a company with true global reach.”

Doug Hart, Chairman at Hart Door Systems added: “It is such a monumental occasion to be handing over the role of Managing Director to my son. I’ve watched him grow up with this company and he has taken every opportunity to really get involved with all aspects of the business.

“It’s his knowledge and passion for the company, its employees and customers that make me certain that he will do a fantastic job of leading the company and taking it forward.”