Meet Joe Brett: National Painting Division Branch Manager
11 May 2026
When it comes to nationwide projects, Bagnalls is proud to manage centrally and deliver locally via our National Painting Division.
We caught up with the Branch Manager of this special division, Joe Brett, to find out more about his role and discover why he’s excited for the future of Bagnalls.
Can you tell us about your role at Bagnalls?
Joe: “I’m responsible for driving growth and service excellence across Bagnalls, while ensuring that our National Painting Division delivers on multiple levels.
“Day-to-day, this includes managing budgets, assessing commercial risk, and working closely with our Regional Directors and Branch Managers to allocate work fairly based on resource, skills and capacity.
“A big part of my role is communication and collaboration. I regularly hold quarterly meetings with Branch Managers, as well as monthly one-to-ones with my team, supporting the National Painting Division to maximise opportunities.”
What first attracted you to Bagnalls as a company?
Joe: “Its strong reputation, long-standing history and family values. Bagnalls has a culture that genuinely balances commercial performance with the development of our people.
“The opportunity to work within a business that values relationships with customers, both internally and externally, really stood out to me.”
What do you love most about being a Branch Manager?
Joe: “The variety! No two days are the same. One day, I could be reviewing a Key Account Plan with our Business Development Team, the next I’m collaborating with our branches to deliver a portfolio of painting works across the UK.
“I also enjoy developing the skills of my team. Supporting my colleagues through monthly meetings, appraisals and succession planning, while seeing them grow in confidence and capability, is incredibly rewarding.”
How did you get into the painting and decorating industry? Any tips for anyone wanting to break into the sector?
Joe: “I was drawn into the industry through the commercial and project management side of the business. I quickly realised that painting and decorating is far more complex and strategic than many people realise. It’s all about logistics, compliance, financial control, client relationships and delivering consistently high standards.
“My advice to anyone wanting to break into our sector is to be willing to learn the operational side, as well as the commercial side. You should also be aware of the fact that our industry is so varied – almost everything needs painting! So, strive to have an open mind and develop strong communication skills – relationships drive success in this industry.”
How did you overcome challenges in the early part of your career?
Joe: “Like many people, I had to build my confidence in making commercial decisions and knowing when to raise challenges. Also, understanding financial risk and contractual detail was a steep learning curve for me.
“I overcame these challenges by asking questions, seeking advice from senior colleagues and being proactive in learning from both successes and setbacks.
“Consistency, preparation and strong communication were key to building credibility and progressing my career.”
Why would you recommend Bagnalls as a workplace?
Joe: “Bagnalls offers a supportive environment where performance and people development go hand in hand. There’s a real emphasis on collaboration across branches and regions, which means you’re never working in isolation.
“The business also encourages accountability, structured development, and clear communication – whether that’s through regular meetings, appraisals or succession planning.
“If you’re looking for a workplace where you can build a long-term career and genuinely make an impact, Bagnalls is a great place to be!”
Can you share your favourite piece of career advice?
Joe: “Focus on adding value, not just completing tasks. If you consistently look at how you can strengthen relationships, develop profitable opportunities, provide customer solutions and support others, progression tends to follow naturally.
“Be commercially aware, communicate clearly, take ownership of outcomes – and you can’t go wrong!”
If you have a nationwide project that you would like our National Painting Division to manage centrally, ensuring consistent quality across each and every local site, get in touch with Joe today on 01274 714 800.