I started work as a Federated Farmers cadet on a local dairy farm. I learned the value of hard work and the sense of accomplishment for a job well done.
What do you see as the greatest opportunity and greatest challenge in your industry in the year ahead?
There has been an increasing trend for customers to become part of regional or national buying deals, which negatively impacts independent operators like ourselves. Most of the dealings are central-ised at head office level which has reduced the servicing and support for customers at local levels, "dumbing down" our industry.
This focus is very price-based decision making, often to the detriment of the end-users.
Our greatest opportunity has been to increase our staff resources in local areas, to provide regular face-to-face contact with customers, using our extensive knowledge and experience to make a beneficial difference for customers, and establish our value so they choose our company over the corporates. It's all about proving the difference of value and service, rather than price.
What three skills or qualities are essential in your role?
A sound knowledge of products and services, lots of enthusiasm and sheer persistence.
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
My work largely defines who I am. I live it and love it. We enjoy socialising with friends and are extremely lucky our kids have grown up to be among our closest friends. The arrival of grandkids has had a profound impact and we have become more involved in family things. My real escape is the forest and I grab every chance to hit the trails on my mountain bike.
If you could do any other job for a day, what would it be and why?
A wilderness guide. I love the outdoors but get so little opportunity to experience it these days. I can well imagine the pleasure of sharing some of our picturesque remote areas with appreciative visitors.
What is one thing most people don't know about you?
That I am actually an introvert. When people meet me, I appear confident and knowledgeable, because I talk a lot to cover my insecurity.
What achievement to date are you most proud of and why?
After an acrimonious partnership split that nearly ruined us, I started up Jasco Distributing in Taupo just over 10 years ago, with just me and two staff. The business flourished and a couple of years ago I bought out the original parent company and merged the two businesses. We now have a staff of 21 and service the whole Bay of Plenty, Waikato and the Coromandel.
What one piece of advice do you wish somebody had given you when you were starting out?
Get good advice first, but have the guts to give things a go. I just wish I had started on my own much earlier.
If you could choose anybody to be your business mentor, who would it be and why?
One of the drawbacks for small to medium business leaders is you operate in isolation having to rely largely on your own wisdom and experience. It is extremely difficult to find someone who has any insight in our industry that could or would be willing to be a mentor. I have constantly sought support and guidance through business organisations like the Chamber of Commerce, or through commercial providers (who don't come cheap).
I am always searching for knowledge or support that will benefit my business.
