MarketPlace Group has promoted Vernon Hassell to the position of vice-president of purchasing and procurement.

He has been with the company for 17 years, however he can trace his association with the MarketPlace back to his teenage years when he helped pack bags.

During his career at the company he has held a number of roles, including assistant store manager, store manager and most recently, director of operations.

His responsibilities now include sourcing new products and vendors, developing new programmes, negotiating with existing vendors and providing leadership to the purchasing team.

Seth Stutzman, president of the MarketPlace Group of stores, said: “Vernon has shown an unsurpassed level of dedication to the MarketPlace and we are excited to further his growth within the company with this promotion to vice-president of purchasing and procurement.

“His commitment to serving the people of Bermuda is evidenced by his tireless work to improve the shopping experience of our customers. He will continue these efforts with a vigorous focus on ensuring that our customers have access to the best products at the island’s lowest prices. We are excited to have Vernon leading this department of the MarketPlace and we know he will experience nothing but success.”