National Representation
“Delivering Excellence Since 1992”
Management Profiles
KERRY SMITH – Company Founder
The company founder and director, Kerry Smith, has extensive experience in the hardware industry. Kerry initially entered the industry as a Sales Representative and progressed to National Sales & Marketing Manager, working for such companies as Selleys, GEC-Osram & Ajax Chemicals.
Having a knowledge and understanding of the retail hardware market is absolutely vital, as is having a ‘hands on’ approach.
Now that the business has an experienced and diverse management team, Kerry has taken a back seat in the Pioneer bus and is still involved at a high management level.
MICHAEL SUTTON (National) – General Manager
Our General Manager, Michael Sutton, has been with the company since 2000. Prior to joining Pioneer Michael held management positions in BBC/Hardware House and Bunnings. Michael has over 30 years experience in the hardware industry and has enjoyed every moment of it!
During his time with the business Michael has worked in varying roles from a sales representative out in the field to lower management and over the years has worked his way up to the position of General Manager and now runs all the day-to-day operations of the business.
Facilitating our company philosophy Michael has a ‘hands on’ approach by being involved in all aspects of our business in all states. Michael visits stores on a regular basis with our management team to ascertain where improvements can be made and to ensure our high level of service is being carried out at all times.
SHARON SUTTON (National) – Office Manager
Sharon joined Pioneer Hardware in 2006 after working as a PA/Paralegal in the legal industry for 13 years. She acquired many skills, assisting various lawyers in all aspects of law from conveyancing to Supreme Court litigation matters and has an extensive knowledge of legal systems through this experience. Some of these skills included preparing & filing court documents, liaising with clients on a professional basis, dealing with government agencies and obtaining medical & other legal reports from independent parties.
At the time of Sharon’s commencement with the business, her role involved general administrative duties but when Pioneer expanded to Victoria in 2010, she became more involved with the financial side of the business.
At present, Sharon deals with all financial, payroll and account aspects of our national business, as well as juggling duties at home with a young family.
CHARLIE CHAIBAN (NSW/ACT) – State Manager
Charlie is an accomplished retailer with over 26 years experience in the retail sector. Prior to joining Pioneer Hardware in February 2014, Charlie held several senior roles with major retailers such as Strathfield Group, Apparel Group (SABA division), Fantastic Holdings (Fantastic Furniture division) and Ardent Leisure which represents both AMF Bowling and Dreamworld.
Charlie has a track record for successfully leading his team through considerable change. Charlie is well known for making a significant and immediate difference to his team members and customers alike, quickly delivering a sales and cost focus.
Charlie is a devoted coach and mentor, identifying talent, nurturing individuals to personal success through support, providing constructive feedback and direction and living the values and culture of the business to the upmost.
BRANTON FLETCHER (VIC/TAS) – State Manager
Branton has an extensive background in wholesale, retail sales and relationship development. His experience is obtained from both the automotive aftermarket and mechanical manufacturing industry sector in a state and national capacity. He has various skills and the ability to work within many different types of environments. This account experience covers working within B2B (wholesale/trade/retail chains). Branton also has an eye for detail and is well accomplished in marketing and brand management.
A firm believer that a personalised approach is paramount, Branton is a methodical but flexible operator, adapting to each client’s individual requirements and situation. His high expectations both for himself and the level of service extends to his clients, his reputation for an exceptional work ethic precedes him, as he builds relationships for the long-term.
His highly professional approach, diligence and interpersonal skills are a perfect fit for Pioneer Hardware. Branton has a real passion for assisting people in making a difference through leading by example. Branton values passion and integrity above all else.
Darryl Prout (QLD) – State Manager
Our newest member of the Pioneer Management team, Darryl, joined us at the beginning of 2024.
Darryl has extensive experience in leading and motivating teams and individuals to exceed targets and grow in their careers. Commencing his career in the industrial and manufacturing industry, he has worked his way beginning in internal sales, through sales representative and various management positions. Most recently, Darryl has held senior roles supplying various key brands into Bunnings for the past decade.
Darryl is driven in helping others succeed and grow in their careers through coaching and mentoring.
ASH WILLS (SA/NT) – Team Leader
Ashley began his career in the glazing industry in machine maintenance for South Australia’s premier glass manufacturer. From this he moved on to maintenance and grounds keeping for the Education Department of South Australia where he honed his skills in maintenance and developed his knowledge of horticulture.
In 2005 he took a position in production and then store keeping. In 2006 Ash had the opportunity to begin merchandising and sales within Bunnings and independents. Over the next ten years he built relationships within Bunnings, independents and the industry which allowed him to represent multiple companies within Bunnings in South Australia and the Northern Territory.
In 2016, Ash had the opportunity to join Pioneer Hardware, and continue to represent companies that he has worked closely with for years within Bunnings, as well as new companies. With his dedication to delivering excellence and passion for service, Ash is looking forward to increasing Pioneer’s presence in SA.
Glenn Boyle (WA) – Team Leader
Glenn started his career working in a timber yard, with hard work and perseverance Glenn was able to take on various management roles. Glenn has worked in the retail home improvement industry for over 35 years and most of those in management.
In 2005 Glenn joined Bunnings and for 11 years worked in all different store management levels from Co-ordinator all the way up to Complex Manager. Glenn also worked for a direct supplier supplying Bunnings with building and landscaping products.
Glenn takes pride in his work, leads by example and loves building strong professional relationships with all key stake holders. His leadership philosophy is about living the values, commitment and trust, these skills are integral to his leadership experience for Pioneer Hardware.