Greens say “Thank You” to Simon Ward and celebrate his 40 year tenure that has helped shape the Hull based company
Last week, Greens Signmakers marked a significant milestone as Simon Ward celebrated 40 years with the company. Joining the Hull-based firm back in 1986, Simon’s career has served as a mirror to the evolution of the print and signage industry, spanning the transition from traditional methods to today’s advanced digital workflows.
Simon began his journey as a pacer operator, a role that required meticulous manual skill in an era before digital design dominated the shop floor. In those early days, “cut-ready” files were not created with a few clicks of a mouse, but were instead crafted using Letraset and physical layouts. His technical aptitude and leadership potential saw him rise through the ranks, eventually serving as Vinyl Team Leader during a pivotal era for the business.
As the industry shifted, Simon was instrumental in leading Greens’ transition into the digital age. His foresight helped the company adopt digital print technology “back in the day,” ensuring the firm remained a competitive force in the UK signage market. Today, he holds the dual responsibilities of Print Manager and IT Manager, overseeing a department that balances high-volume production with complex, bespoke creative projects.
Beyond his technical contributions, Simon has become a cornerstone of the company culture. Known as a supportive and encouraging mentor, he is frequently referred to by colleagues as the “Work Dad” of the department. This role has become increasingly important as he shares four decades of tribal knowledge with the next generation of apprentices and printers, ensuring that the skills learned in 1986 continue to inform the innovations of 2026.
Lawrence Green, Managing Director of Greens the Signmakers, has often highlighted the importance of family and long-term dedication within the business. Simon’s four-decade tenure embodies this philosophy, representing the “endless dedication” that has helped take the company to its current status as a national signage provider.
Congratulations to Simon on this monumental achievement. His journey from manual pacer operator to the helm of the Print Department is a testament to his adaptability and his vital role in the continued success of Greens.