Heron Joinery’s John Mullan wins BWF Rising Star Award

Draperstown-based Heron Joinery is celebrating John Mullan’s success at this year’s British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Awards, where he was named winner of the BWF Rising Star Award

Sponsored by NFU Mutual – providers of home, business, motor and farming insurance – the Rising Star Award celebrates an individual whose dedication and hard work have made a meaningful impact on their organisation or the wider woodworking and joinery community.

John was nominated for the award by his colleagues at Heron Joinery, part of the Heron Manufacture Ltd family of specialist companies.

When nominating John, his employer described him as someone “known internally not just for what he does, but for how he does it. He is supportive, dependable and brings out the best in others.” Reflecting this praise, BWF Award judges commented that John is “a driven leader whose dedication, innovation and community spirit have transformed both Heron Joinery and those he works with.”

John Mullan, Sales Account Manager at Heron Joinery, said: “Thank you to Heron Joinery for nominating me for this award and for their ongoing support, encouragement and opportunities within the business. I’m proud to have won this award and to be the second BWF Rising Star within Heron Joinery, which truly reflects the culture of the company. We’re a passionate, talented and supportive team delivering high-quality windows and doors for our customers.”

Mark Kelly, Managing Director at Heron Manufacture, added: “John’s story is the embodiment of what it takes to be a rising star. He gives his all every day and his enthusiasm inspires those around him. John’s dedication and commitment stand him in excellent stead, and his ambition is what will truly propel him in this industry. Well done, John – we’re all incredibly proud of you.”

Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive of the BWF, commented: “This year’s BWF Awards provided a fantastic opportunity for the sector to come together to celebrate the projects, businesses and individuals driving innovation and best practice across woodworking and joinery manufacturing.

“In just over seven years, John has had a remarkable rise through Heron Joinery and is a true rising star. The woodworking and joinery manufacturing sector is exciting and innovative, and it’s individuals like John – who go above and beyond to support colleagues, customers and the wider business – who’re at the heart of our industry. Congratulations, John; I look forward to seeing what the next seven years hold for you.”

The prize was presented at a celebratory awards evening, which took place on Friday 21 November at the Kimpton Fitzroy London.

A full list of this year’s BWF Award winners can be found on the BWF website: www.bwf.org.uk/bwf-awards-2025.