Obituary - Roger Latham

Roger Latham died of a heart attack on September 2.

He joined James Latham plc in 1962 and retired in 2006 following six years as chairman. After spending his early years in the panel’s side of the business and time at the company’s door and panel factory in High Wycombe, he moved north to Yorkshire to open the Ossett depot in 1972. This was the first of the company’s regional outlets trading in panels and hardwood and proved a great success. It set the pattern for future expansion in the 1970s.

Mr Latham was a shrewd trader, paid great attention to detail and was a strong driver for continuing improvement. He was well known in the business for commenting that short-term success was “good luck”!

He was chairman at a pivotal time for the company. Following the sale of the 12-acre Clapton site in 2000 he oversaw the company’s strategy for relocation and the addition of regional depots with a wide range of products.

He was active in various trade bodies and was chairman of the TTF pension fund.

Mr Latham was a keen sportsman playing tennis and golf and enjoyed all country pursuits.