Finance Directors Retires After 41 Years With Firm

The directors and staff of Smith and Ouzman, the UK independent commercial and security printing company in Eastbourne, will say farewell to finance director Len Smith, when he retires on October 14.

The directors and staff of Smith and Ouzman, the UK independent commercial and security printing company in Eastbourne, will say farewell to finance director Len Smith, when he retires on October 14.

The 59 year-old Smith, a self-confessed football fanatic, has worked for Smith and Ouzman for 41 years, having joined the company as an apprentice when 15 years-old in 1962.

After completing his six-year apprenticeship, he spent a brief spell at another printing company before returning to Smith and Ouzman in 1970 and progressing to finance director and company secretary in 1991.

Leaving the Eastbourne print works with many fond memories, Smith said he is sure that his commitment to ensuring profitable development for the firm has been embraced by Peter Ellis, who will replace him, taking the role of finance manager.

Ellis's former roles include three years as finance manger at the University of Sussex and six years at Glaxo SmithKline Beecham.

Smith commented: "Smith and Ouzman has not just been a place of work for 41 years, it has been a big part of my life.

I still remember first walking through the door to start my apprenticeship.

I have made many good friends and will treasure all the happy memories.

Now though, I plan to spend more of my time on my second love as chairman of Eastbourne Borough Football Club." Christopher Smith, the company's chairman, said: "The Smith and Ouzman team, now a workforce of over 100 people, would like to join me in wishing Len, not just a colleague but an inspiration to us all, the very best in his retirement.

Here's hoping his increased focus on Eastbourne Borough FC will bring more trophies to add to their already bursting cabinets." Smith has been involved with Eastbourne Borough FC since 1966.

The team will now benefit from even more dedicated support, as well as securing printing of their award-winning programme at Smith and Ouzman.

Over the 41 years at the company, Len has helped it grow and develop to a £7m per annum international business.

He met the Duke of York when he visited the factory and he has helped the company achieve the Queen's Award for Enterprise in International Trade in 2000 and 2005.

Christopher Smith added: "Smith and Ouzman is a prestigious company with many facets.

It is its staff that make it really special though, especially people like Len who leave us with many lasting memories.

Len didn't just look after our finances, he nurtured them and helped us grow our company to the successful multi-million pound business it is today.".

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