Mike Emery joins Avalon to leadUK sales operation

Avalon, the leading provider of pre-paid funeral plans, has appointed Mike Emery to lead its UK sales operation.

Emery brings more than 25 years' experience in developing and leading sales teams in highly competitive environments. He has built a proven track record in the financial sector and transformed the sales functions at major retail, healthcare, utility and consumer brands.

Emery joins Avalon from Emerco Business Services, where he provided sales force development and consultancy services for clients in the merchant services sector. Prior to this, he recruited, trained and developed the direct sales operation at Chip & Pin Solutions from a standing start. Here, he managed a team of 10 area managers and 100 business advisors.

Between 2009 and 2011, Emery was Head of Direct and Third Party Sales Channels at electricity and gas giant, npower. Generating £300m annual revenue, he contributed to a £10 million increase in the company's profits. Emery led npower'sin-house Fieldsales Transformation Programme and managed 800 direct sales staff.

Looking forward to his new role, Emery said: "Avalon is an ambitious company with a real determination to succeed. The business offers a unique range of products that are popular with consumers in the UK and overseas."

Steve Chambers, Avalon CEO said, "With his expertise and track record, Mike is an excellent addition to the Avalon team. His appointment is yet further evidence of our determination to maintain our growth trajectory, and strengthen our position in the pre-arranged funeral market."

Avalon protects customers from rising funeral costs and the worry of having to arrange a funeral when the time comes. Avalon's three comprehensive packages, Balmoral, Highgrove and Windsor Way, are available in the UK, Spain, Cyprus, Turkey, Malta, Portugal and Tenerife. 

For further information about Avalon visit,www.avalonfuneralplans.co.uk