What’s your role at Groop?
I am the Commercial Director at Groop. I’m responsible for developing, driving and leading the sales strategies for Groop.
I ensure we continue to grow the business whilst looking for new and exciting markets to go after. I work closely with Sally and the rest of the senior leadership team, supporting where I can.
What does a typical day look like?
Every day starts with a coffee (or 2), followed by a stand-up meeting with the rest of my team. This is a great chance to talk about the day ahead, review the previous day’s activity and make sure I can support my team in the best way possible.
I will usually be involved in 2 or 3 meetings with potential new customers; exploring ways in which we can add value to their organisation.
What’s your background?
I have over 18 years’ experience in leading sales, marketing and customer success teams in the technology start-up, SAAS and finance industries.
Outside of work I have always been passionate about volunteering and supporting others. When I was 23, I started helping out at the Cyrenians Homeless Hostel. I volunteered on their Street Soccer programme for almost 7 years and did everything from making sandwiches and washing the kit through to commentating on their matches and driving people to games.
What skills do you need for your job?
Being a good listener is important; understanding what I can do to support my team, or a potential customer will only come from active listening.
Sales can be a lot like sport… so it really helps to be competitive. Having a good memory can also be a handy skill! Being able to recall a conversation with a customer from 6 months ago will stand you in good stead.
I also believe that a little resilience can get you a long way. After 18 years in sales roles, thick-skin comes in handy every now and again.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Getting to work with a brilliant team everyday. I am constantly amazed with the people I get to work with and love the fact that we all have the same ethos and social goal at our core.
How do you spend your spare time? (What volunteering do you do outside work?).
In my spare time I love to spend time with my family and two dogs. We love being active as a family and exploring the beautiful Gower Peninsula where we live. I am always keen to try something new and challenging, especially if it’s for a good cause.
I once did a sky-dive for MS Cymru and also completed a 72-hour mountain hike for Help For Heroes. I encourage my two boys to participate in volunteering activities and I’m proud that they are enjoying Beaver Scouts. I am also a NED for a software start-up.
Any recommendations to share?
I have just put down ‘Delivering Happiness – a path to profits, passion and purpose’ by Tony Hseih (CEO of Zappos). It’s the third time I’ve finished it and it’s still brilliant to read!
