'Rising Star' award for sales manager of Draperstown firm at prestigious London awards ceremony

Draperstown-based Heron Joinery is celebrating John Mullan’s win at this year’s British Woodworking Federation’s (BWF) Awards, where he took home the BWF Rising Star Award.

The Rising Star Award is sponsored by NFU Mutual, the provider of home, business, motor and farming insurance, and celebrates an individual whose dedication and hard work has made a real difference to either the organisation in which they work, or to the wider woodworking and joinery community.

John was nominated for the award by his colleagues at Heron Joinery, which is part of the Heron Manufacture Ltd family of specialist companies.

When nominating John for the award, his employer said: “John is known internally not just for what he does, but for how he does it. He is supportive, dependable, and brings out the best in others.” 

Reflecting Heron Joinery’s praise for his achievements, BWF Award judges commented that John is “a driven leader whose dedication, innovation, and community spirit have transformed both Heron Joinery and those he works with.”

John Mullan, Sales Account Manager at Heron Joinery said: “Thank you to Heron Joinery for nominating me for this award and for their ongoing support, encouragement and opportunities within the business. I’m proud to have won this award and to be the second BWF Rising Star within Heron Joinery, which truly represents the culture of the company – we’re a passionate, talented and supportive team which deliver high quality windows and doors for our customers.”  

Mark Kelly, Managing Director at Heron Manufacture added: “John’s story is the true embodiment of what it takes to be a rising star. He gives his all every day and his enthusiasm brings others along on his journey too. John’s dedication and commitment stand him in excellent stead and his ambition is what will truly propel him in this industry. Well done John, we are all incredibly proud of you.”

Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive of the BWF, commented: “This year’s BWF Awards provided a fantastic opportunity for the sector to come together to recognise and celebrate the projects, businesses and people driving innovation and best practice across woodworking and joinery manufacture.

“In just over seven years, John has had a remarkable rise through Heron Joinery and is a true rising star. The woodworking and joinery manufacturing sector is an exciting and innovative profession, and its individuals like John who go above and beyond to support colleagues, customers and the business as a whole to innovate and bring out the best in people is what is at the heart of our sector. Congratulations John, I look forward to seeing what the next seven years hold for you.”

The prize was presented at a celebratory awards evening on Friday, November 21 at the Kimpton Fitzroy London.

A full list of the winners at this year’s BWF Awards can be found here