Ryan keeps it in the family at Pentagon, Poole

He’s only 19 years old but as he embarks on his new sales career with Pentagon Commercials Ryan Flynn knows he can rely on a guiding hand – that of his father Chris.

Trainee van sales executive Ryan is now working at the company’s branch on the Creekmoor Industrial Estate in Poole, which is also the base for Chris, one of the country’s most experienced Mercedes-Benz truck sales specialists.

A former pupil of St Edwards School in Oakdale, Ryan said: “I’ve always wanted to get into the automotive industry and obviously the fact that my dad already works for Pentagon hasn’t done me any harm.

“But I recognise that it’s entirely up to me to make a go of the fantastic opportunity I’ve been given, and that’s something I’m determined to do. There’s a lot to learn in terms of vehicle specifications and options but I’m enjoying getting out and meeting existing and prospective customers, and have picked up a few orders along the way, so I think it’s going pretty well.

“I’ve also been working with my Van Sales Manager Kevin Downham on a project that involves taking our Traveliner minibus demonstrator to lots of schools – that’s generated quite a bit of interest and will hopefully lead to more orders.”

Ryan lives with his parents at the family home in Poole. Chris, who is seven years into his second stint with Pentagon, says: “We try not to talk ‘shop’ too much over the dinner table but I’m giving him whatever help I can.”