Job Role

Managing Director

Company

Polypipe Ltd (Civils Division)

What attracted you to the plastics industry in the first place?

My first experience of the plastics industry started when I applied to a local plastics manufacturer. It wasn't the plastic industry that attracted me, the primary reasons where the fact they were actively recruiting at the time and is was local to where I lived. It was not part of a larger development plan.

How did your career move forward?

I started as a Technical Trainee at 16 years old. I completed an ONC in Polymer Engineering followed by an HNC part time. I then chose to study full time at Burton Technical College, completing an standard degree (Grad PRI). This achievement gave me enough credibility to move from the manufacturing side of the business towards sales within the same organisation. During my career I moved to a distributor of plastic pipe and later to a competitor of my original employer as the Sales Director. I held this role for 9 years before achieving a promotion to Managing Director.

What advice do you have for young people starting out?

My advice would be to progress your education as far as your capabilities allow and as early as possible. Test different roles if you can until you find the right one for you, ensuring you decide what you ultimately enjoy doing and were your skill set is most suited then dedicate yourself fully to that career path.

What do you like about working in the plastics industry?

I enjoy the variation that this sector covers and the scope of different functions available from which you can always learn from.

How do you think the plastics industry will change in the next 5 years?

I strongly believe the plastics industry is set to grow into ever more technically challenging sectors.

Wondering where you could fit into the industry? Head over to our Career Pathways to plot your journey now!