Meet the Commercial Team - Rob Smith

Name: Rob Smith

Job Title: Area Sales Manager

TIP Base Location: UK Gateshead Branch

Start month at TIP: Feb 2017

How long have you been in the industry and how did you get into it?

I’ve been in the industry since leaving school. I originally trained as a HGV technician, completing my apprenticeship with DAF and, ever since, have been in the trade, whether in the workshop or office.

What do you like about working for TIP?

It really is like family; everyone looks out for each other and everyone is appreciated. Promotion from within is very real – this is my second role change in 6 years of service at TIP.

What does a typical day for you involve?

A typical day for me involves calling or visiting prospective or existing customers, seeing that they are happy and whether we can do anything more for them.

What are the top 3 most valuable skills you’ve learnt whilst working for TIP?

1. People management – I’ve managed people in the past, but they were always considered just a number by hierarchy. Here, they aren’t a number, they are people and TIP instils management with the skills to treat everyone as you would like to be treated.

2. Communication is key.  

3. Think out of the box – we all have ideas and sometimes it is the craziest ones that work!

What is your biggest work achievement?

I’ve just had my 6 year anniversary with TIP and during that time I’ve been promoted to new roles twice. Upon taking over managing the Gateshead workshop we had 4 technicians but we’ve been able to grow with the support from the business to 11 technical staff in 3 years.

What’s your favourite part of coming to work every day?

My favourite part has got to be that no two days are the same; I could be at the Gateshead  branch, working from home or out on the road visiting customers.

At this stage of your career, where do you see yourself next year? 3 years from now? 5 years?

Still with TIP – in what role, no one knows… but I’m here for life.

What's your opinion on how TIP has changed or evolved in the past few years?

There has been massive growth, and the way I look at this, it is extra security for staff. TIP is a true market leader and the drive that the business has, means that everyone is safe and secure in their roles for years to come.

What’s your ideal way to spend your weekends?

Walking the Northumbria coastline with my family and Springer Spaniel Penny.