RB: What is your favourite holiday destination?
SP: Dublin. I went for my honeymoon so it holds some special memories for me. My wife and I have been back many times over the years.
RB: What car do your drive?
SP: A Jaguar XF.
RB: What are your hobbies?
SP: Coaching West Exe Youth Football Club in Exeter. It has approximately 20 teams with 300 boys and girls from under-7s to under-16s. The club is run by volunteers and gives kids from all walks of life and abilities the opportunity to play. This takes up most of my time and started when my lad wanted to play. While he is now grown-up and playing adult football, I am still there.
RB: How did you get into the industry?
SP: When I left school I got a job engineering gearboxes and clutches. I later moved to a role that involved talking with customers more. I preferred to talk rather than get dirty and discovered that sales suits me. My role at Trucksmith combines the best of both worlds.
RB: How would you encourage more young people into the industry?
SP: Emphasise that every day is different and exciting as you never know what the next phone call will be. This industry has changed so much in my time at Trucksmith, which is nearly 10 years. It is constantly evolving and becoming more diverse.
RB: What is the outlook for your sector of the market over the next 12 months?
SP: Continued steady growth regarding existing products. We are also launching products that will offer customers the full range of lightweight vehicles.
