Congratulations on your appointment. Please tell us about your background.
Thank you, I’m thrilled to be part of the Smith&Smith® and Laser Plumbing & Electrical team.
My background is in service-based industries. I’ve been lucky enough to work in a range of industries, from banking and insurance to telecommunications. I’ve worked in NZ and offshore, including in Africa and Asia. Every business I’ve worked in has been focused on solving customer problems, but they all approach them in different ways.
Vehicle glass repair, plumbing and electrical are quite diverse businesses. What made you interested in the role?
Fundamentally, it was the people and culture. Within Smith&Smith® and Laser there is a strong focus on solving our customers’ problems with real care - something I am extremely passionate about.
I know that how we treat a customer that has come to us for an insurance repair ultimately reflects back on their broker and that a positive experience can absolutely influence the relationship the broker has with their client.
Moving forward I would like to explore how we can partner with brokers in new ways to benefit both our businesses, especially now that we have Laser Electrical and Plumbing as part of our business.
What are you really into outside of work?
As Kiwis we are lucky to live in such a beautiful land. I love being outdoors and try to see as much of this country as I can – I tramped Lake Waikaremoana at Easter and that is my ideal way to spend my leisure time – good friends, beautiful scenery and great conversation.
What was your journey like to get where you are?
Varied! I’ve always attracted to new challenges, and so have done a variety of jobs. I started working at 10 in my parents corner dairy, and I’ve also worked at McDonald’s, in bars and restaurants etc. The one consistent theme through them all is customer - every business I’ve worked in has wanted to deliver great experiences that their customers value.
