Adrian Hall holds a professional past that is a testament to his extensive experience and unwavering dedication to the timber industry. From his academic roots with a timber degree from what was then Buckinghamshire College of Higher Education, Hall has climbed the ranks from a humble salesman to a pivotal figure in the timber industry.
Adrian’s tenure has seen him traverse the UK, championing specialist products and honing his sales acumen, and it was his rich tapestry of experiences that culminated in his bold decision to take the reins of Stoneleigh Timber Engineering, steering it away from closure and towards prosperity. The Managing Director’s directorship at the Trussed Rafter Association and his strategic role with system providers have equipped him with a unique blend of technical expertise and commercial insight. Hall’s leadership is defined by his ability to manage expectations, deliver beyond promises, and navigate the complexities of a business that, while not vast, is vital to the livelihoods of the families it supports.
Stoneleigh’s Integral Role
At the core of Stoneleigh Timber Engineering’s strategic significance lies its integral role in the construction industry, as articulated by the MD. “We are a very important part of the building industry,” Hall asserts, emphasising the company’s contribution to modern housing through the supply of truss roofs—essential components that form the skeleton of a building’s roof. Hall highlights the company’s alignment with governmental objectives to streamline construction via off-site production, a domain where the truss industry has been pioneering for decades.
Under Hall’s stewardship, Stoneleigh has expanded its repertoire beyond roofs to include stairs, feature trusses, and even the structural elements of buildings, all crafted from wood. “We’re starting to add in extra things… now we can actually offer the whole fabric of the building as well,” Hall explains, showcasing the company’s adaptability and innovation. This expansion not only meets the government’s increasing demands for building output but also addresses the skill shortage in the industry by creating products that require less skilled labour to assemble.
Hall envisions a growing importance for companies like Stoneleigh in the face of Britain’s housing challenges. “The importance of companies like this is going to become bigger and bigger as we move forward,” he predicts, acknowledging the pressing need for more homes and the limitations of the current system to meet this demand. With a focus on efficiency and local trade, Stoneleigh’s strategic reach extends from North Wiltshire to Kent, though its impact resonates on a national scale. Hall’s forward-thinking approach and his commitment to overcoming industry challenges position Stoneleigh Timber Engineering as a pivotal player in the future of British construction.
Educating the Industry’s Future
In his dual role as a director for both the Trussed Rafter Association and the Wood Technology Group, the Stoneleigh Managing Director underscores the pivotal role of education in the timber industry. “We’re always talking about education,” Hall states, highlighting the need to attract school leavers to the sector, which he considers a crucial part of the economy. Adrian is passionate about dispelling misconceptions regarding the environmental impact of timber usage, advocating for managed systems over the exploitation of rainforests. “We need to get the education out very broadly across the whole of the nation,” he insists, emphasising the sustainable and renewable nature of timber as a building material.
Hall’s commitment to education extends beyond industry specifics to career opportunities within the sector. “I went and did a talk last year at one of the local colleges to try and tell people what is possible,” he recounts, reflecting on his own rewarding career journey since 1985. Adrian believes it is incumbent upon companies like Stoneleigh to illuminate the potential within the timber industry for the younger generation, “it’s a very important part of what we do.”
Advice From an Industry Exemplar
In his concluding remarks, Adrian imparts wisdom that transcends the timber industry, offering a blueprint for aspiring leaders. “The most important message is the one on education,” Hall asserts, emphasising the need to ignite passion in the younger generation for the natural environment and sustainable practices. His vision is clear: “We really must get onto that bandwagon… education has to be the thing.”
Hall’s legacy is shaped not only by his achievements but also by his vibrant character. “I would like to be remembered as somebody that’s not boring,” he says with a chuckle. His approach to leadership is refreshingly candid, encouraging others to challenge the status quo. “Don’t be afraid to speak out and say no,” he advises, wary of the ‘emperor’s new clothes’ syndrome that plagues many industries.
For those who dare to lead, Hall offers a parting thought: “It requires a certain amount of bravery.” He reflects on his own journey to the top, a testament to perseverance and the value of experience. “Don’t be in too much of a rush,” he counsels, underscoring the importance of integrity and the lessons learned along the way. In a world often hasty to reach the summit, Adrian Hall’s advice stands as a beacon, guiding future leaders towards a path of thoughtful and principled stewardship.
