Philip Melrose
DIRECTORPhil had an offshore powerboat racing accident in January 1991 which left him with a complete T9 lesion. After a number of frustrations with his own wheelchair he decided to build one for himself out of Titanium. This was so successful he gradually had more built as he sold them to friends and acquaintances.
The small part time garage interest has grown since 1992 to a business that designs and fabricates custom wheelchairs, sells imported wheelchairs and mobility products, imports mobility scooters (Shoprider) and offroad buggies (Melrose Motorsport). The business now employs between 45 to 55 staff in two factories in New Zealand and California.
Phil enjoys speedway and drove a TQ midget prior and after his accident. He now admits he got more enjoyment from helping and watching his daughters’ race.
Annette Melrose
DIRECTORAnnette is the Managing Director of Melrose Kiwi Concept Chairs and ensures a smooth workflow between the office and factory as well as the day to day operations.
Annette has been with Melrose from the beginning. She has played a big part behind the scenes and is always supporting the staff to succeed in their roles at Melrose.
Annette is family focused and enjoys dancing, yoga and fitness.
Ricky Brett
PRODUCTION MANAGERRicky manages the day to day production operations for Melrose Kiwi Concept Chairs. Ricky has been part of the team since 2008. He came from an automotive background to fabricating wheelchairs and is now managing the production team in great strides. He leads the team to produce quality results.
Ricky enjoys spending time with his son Lachy and they both enjoy speedway and motor biking. Ricky enjoys activities that involve speed and thrills.
Philippa Melrose
SALES AND MARKETING MANAGERPhilippa oversees our top team of sales people and manages all our marketing and advertising for Melrose Kiwi Concept Chairs.
Philippa has been with the company since 2003, she has had hands on experience of most of the production processes of Melrose Manufacturing. Her experience and leadership of our sales team is based on extensive experience in seating and positioning and how our chairs can be built to unique qualities for our customers. She is passionate about building the right chair for every individual.
Philippa loves spending time with her son Lachy. She is into health and fitness and enjoys cycling. She has completed Le Race and cycled Lake Taupo and is always looking to do more.
Team Leaders
Andy Walker - FABRICATION
Gary Fridd - FABRICATION
Dave Richie - ENGINEERING
Brian Simmons - ASSEMBLY
Andrea Dallow - UPHOLSTERY
Kelly Frisby - STORES
Gary Fridd - FABRICATION
Dave Richie - ENGINEERING
Brian Simmons - ASSEMBLY
Andrea Dallow - UPHOLSTERY
Kelly Frisby - STORES