I got my start at Bullivants as a Storeman in the Cairns branch. Having always been one that prefers to start at grass roots level
and thoroughly learn the ins and outs of a business-this role was a good fit as a newcomer to the industry. I learnt how to manufacture,
inspect and test the items that we sell as well as perform all the other duties that keep the warehouse side of the branch running. Throughout this time I assisted the Technical Service Representatives with the installation of height safety systems and customer's lifting/height safety inspections and testing. I believe this position gave me the best introduction to the Bullivants business as it was
very hands on training with a considerable level of theoretical application as well. My role as Storeman set a really firm foundation
for the rest of my career path to build upon within Bullivants.
My next move within the business was from out the back in the warehouse, to the front of the branch in an Internal Sales role. This
was a great step as I had all the warehouse know-how and now I was discovering everything there was to know about the remainder
of the branch's operation. This included learning our computer system, building on my product knowledge, meeting our customer's and understanding their business needs, and establishing relationships with our suppliers. I thoroughly enjoyed this role as it enabled me to
use my people skills and sales ability whilst directly influencing the financial success and productivity of the branch.
Then was the transition from within the branch, to outside the branch to generate business. My next position was as Account Manager. From planning the call, seeing the customer, getting the opportunity to quote, and winning the order, it really gave me job satisfaction as I was directly influencing each stage of the order process. It was also invaluable to be out in the trade, learning more about the diversity of our customers and seeing our products in their application. For my efforts I was rewarded with a fabulous opportunity to relocate into a Branch Manager role interstate! I was given the challenge of starting up a new branch from scratch!
In the early stages we had a very small team, and so the ability to perform any task that was required was imperative, throughout
the day I could have been storeman, internal sales, Technical Service Rep and Branch Manager! That highlights the exciting diversity of
the Bullivants business day to day and how each position I have held along the way has been vital in my development and transition to
branch manager.
Branch manager is a diverse role of challenging variables, dollars, people, product, logistics, and solutions. At Bullivants, safety comes
first and the safety procedures and ongoing training are industry best- the safety of my team, their environment and their work practices are my first priority.
In the timespan of 7 years I have progressed from being a complete newcomer to the industry and starting out as a storeman, to now running a branch. The training and development opportunities I have been given have helped me along the way. Bullivants are a successful and growing company because we recognise potential in our people and want them to grow and be successful with them!
|