F J Chalke is embarking on a new chapter as its chairman James Chalke announces his retirement after nearly 50 years of dedicated service, marking the end of an era for the family-run business.
Reflecting on the challenges and triumphs that have shaped the company, Chalke acknowledged the privilege of working alongside many remarkable individuals.
“I am pleased to say that I leave the business in good hands,” he said, speaking of the strength of the team that will carry F J Chalke forward.
Pictured above is a young James Chalke behind the wheel of an Elf Riley, steering towards a lifetime in automotive.
The company’s future will now be guided by George Chalke, who steps into the role of chairman as the fourth generation of the Chalke family to lead the business. Managing director Steve Fowler will continue to oversee operations, supported by a board that includes Scott Young, Martin Berkley, and Mark Swain.
As he bade farewell, Chalke encouraging the new team to embrace future challenges and continue the company’s legacy of growth that has seen the transformation of employee facilities to partnering with renowned brands including Abarth, Fiat, Jeep, Nissan, Suzuki, Kia, Maxus, and MG.
Its state-of-the-art flagship Kia, Nissan, and MG showroom in Yeovil demonstrate a multimillion-pound investment while a strong commitment to the environment saw the business embarking in 2015 on an eco-conscious journey, aligning its values with the growing concerns of its customers.
Integral to F J Chalke’s success is its dedicated staff. Notably, two directors stand as living testaments to loyalty, each celebrating over 40 years of tenure with the company.
“After nearly 50 years of dedication to the business, James has stepped down as Chairman. His guidance has been instrumental in shaping the company into the trusted dealership it is today. With this transition, F J Chalke enters a new era, with George Chalke – the fourth generation of the family – becoming chairman. George, together with a strong leadership team, aims to ensure the company’s future remains firmly rooted in its founding values while embracing the challenges and opportunities ahead,” said the business.
