About Sam Cross - Commercial Director
Like many people growing up, my early ambitions revolved around football and music. When neither a professional contract nor a call from Oasis materialised, I turned to writing, studying journalism at Liverpool John Moores University with ambitions to work in music or sport. That path changed when I spotted a job advert in my local newspaper for a local marketing agency, and in 2009 I joined Purplex.
More than 17 years later, my career has been spent almost entirely within the construction, glazing and home improvement sectors. During that time, I’ve progressed from Account Executive through to Commercial Director, gaining hands-on experience across every stage of the marketing process from writing copy and managing PR campaigns, to developing growth strategies, leading teams, managing key accounts and overseeing sales.
That journey has given me a practical, end-to-end understanding of how marketing works in this industry. I’ve worked with hundreds of businesses across both B2B and B2C, helping them launch new products, enter new markets, build stronger brands, generate demand and improve long-term customer retention across trade, retail, commercial and new-build markets.
Today, as Commercial Director, I oversee business growth, customer success and strategic development at Purplex. A key focus of my role is building strong, long-term partnerships across the supply chain, working closely with manufacturers, suppliers, installers and industry organisations to help businesses grow together. This approach reflects Purplex’s belief in being strategy-led and relationship-driven, focusing on commercial outcomes rather than short-term tactics.
Alongside my client work, I have also played a visible role within the sector, including hosting and presenting at the Glazing Summit, one of the industry’s leading conferences.
Experience & Expertise
- Marketing strategy and commercial growth
- Content strategy and campaign development
- Brand positioning and market entry strategies
- B2B and B2C marketing within construction and home improvement
- Lead generation and demand creation
- Trade, retail, commercial and new-build market strategies
- Partnership-led growth and long-term client relationships
Career progression at Purplex
- Commercial Director (2025–Present)
Overseeing sales, account management, customer retention and strategic development across our construction industry client base. - Account Director (2014–2024)
Led PR and content teams, developed marketing strategies for major clients and supported company growth through acquisition and retention. - Public Relations Manager (2011–2013)
Managed PR campaigns, content strategies and media relationships across the construction sector. - Account Executive (2009–2010)
Created content, managed PR campaigns and supported client communications with trade media.
Outside of Work
Outside the office, I’m a husband and dad to two young children and spending time with my family is my absolute favourite thing in the world. I’m a keen guitarist, enjoy keeping fit, follow football closely, and usually manage to squeeze in a few games of online chess every day!
