By John Kirwin:
“Keith joined the business nearly 6 years ago just as we were expanding our project department. We needed a strong, organised individual to oversee and manage this process. He soon made his mark, introducing new processes to enable the smooth operation of the business.
Keith became the hub around which the project team revolved. He managed major projects for Penmann which he delivered on time and budget and most of all with a satisfied client. With a background in general contracting Keith soon discovered that the Food & Drinks industry is a breath of fresh air. He remarked – the client wants you to succeed!
He had a terrific sense of humour, a passion for football and Leeds Utd. A great family man, he will be greatly missed by Sarah, Izzi, Fred & Burt the dog. Judith, our Office Manager, was always amused when Burt was in the office with Keith, to whom he was totally devoted. However, he would station himself at her side because he knew the exact location of the treat drawer and food came before loyalty! Keith would stand in her office and call him a traitor and other less repeatable names!
A key memory I have is, after fielding a call from an agitated and complaining client on a bank holiday Sunday, I phoned Keith who calmly informed me he had it all under control, the client was wrong, but was in need of help. He quietly and calmly pulled together our supplier and contractor and got the client out of a hole of their own making.
Colleagues are walking together in Malham this Sun 19th September to chat, remember and reflect.
A true professional and the world is a sadder place for us all without him. RIP Keith XXX”
