Multi-brand franchisor announces changes at the top

The Bardon Group confirms significant board level changes

The Bardon Group, which owns franchise brands Recognition Express, Techclean, Kall Kwik and ComputerXplorers, has announced major board level changes.

Managing director Nigel Toplis, who’s spent 18 years at the helm of Recognition Express and latterly The Bardon Group, is to become non-executive chairman, while operations director Chris Masters will become managing director of Recognition Express and Techclean.

Nigel will continue as managing director of Kall Kwik and ComputerXplorers, while focusing on the strategic development of all four brands, as well as his interests in South Africa.

Laurence Bagley, who’s spent 20 years with The Bardon Group, remains as finance director.

Nigel says: “I believe everyone has a sell-by date in any role. I’m not talking full retirement yet, as I feel I have many more years of leadership in me, but robust succession planning is perhaps one of the most important aspects a successful business must address. 

“We’ve been planning my transition from MD to chairman for some time and from very early on in his career at Recognition Express it was obvious Chris Masters possessed the aptitude to be heir apparent. 

“He’s worked closely alongside me, stepping up last year to become operations director to prepare for this moment, and I look forward to mentoring him as he settles into his new role.”

Nigel adds: “As many people know, I spend several months each year in South Africa and have developed a great love for the country, its people and wildlife.

“I’m ready for a new challenge and want to spend more time over there supporting small developing businesses and working to protect elephants and rhinos on the continent.”

Chris joined The Bardon Group in 2002. He’s held various head office roles, spent time working in a Recognition Express franchise and runs a Techclean territory as well.

Responsibilities in his new role as managing director will include leading The Bardon Group’s 10-strong head office team and mentoring Recognition Express and Techclean franchisees.

“I’m ready for the challenges that being managing director will bring,” Chris says.

“Having spent almost my whole working life in the franchise industry and at Recognition Express, I have the insight and understanding to be able to bring new ideas and working practices to the business, while at the same time build on the solid foundations laid down by Nigel and his predecessor.

“Listening to and understanding the needs of our network, especially in these unprecedented times, is vital and I’m committed to do everything we can to help each individual franchisee grow and develop his or her business.”