Ben Fatchen
Director, Operations Manager
With over 22 continuous years’ experience in the cabinet-making industry, Ben brings an enormous amount of experience and expertise. Ben started in the cabinet-making industry in Goolwa in 1994 as an apprentice, completing trade school in 1998 with distinctions. During this time, he competed in the World Skills competition in his field and finished third in the state.
In mid 2000, Ben started GKW, employing two staff. With a strong interest and passion for technology and systems he rapidly implemented CNC machinery and the latest software to increase quality and consistency of product, and to enhance customer service.
To keep abreast of the constant and rapid changes the industry is facing and to find the latest machinery, trends, products and manufacturing techniques, Ben regularly attends trade shows and conferences both locally, interstate and overseas. Ben sees this as a crucial component to the continued success and sustainability of GKW.
Ben carries out the role of Operations Manager with the main focus on Management and Development of GKW’s manufacturing processes and software systems.
Brett Beaty
Director, Production Coordinator
Brett brings a wealth of knowledge to the GKW team, having over twenty years of experience in the furnishing and kitchen manufacturing industry.
Brett started his career in the furnishing industry in 1995 as an apprentice cabinet maker building free standing solid timber furniture, quickly gaining skills and knowledge. Whilst completing his apprenticeship he was introduced to the kitchen industry through his father inlaw, also a cabinetmaker, who ran his own joinery shop.
After completing his trade and continuing on as a factory manager for a few years, Brett started his own business along with his father in law. Specializing in high end custom built solid timber furniture which they sold to both retail and private customers. Seeing a demand in the market, they branched out into the manufacture of custom built kitchens.
During this time Brett developed a passion for computer aided design (CAD) software which he introduced into the manufacturing process. This led to the introduction of 3D drawing software to be able to show customers their kitchens in 3D prior to being actually produced.
This passion still drives Brett today.
Bretts’ role at GKW is production manager. Brett has a strong emphasis on attention to detail and communication.
