In the second instalment of our new employee Q&A, area sales manager Dean Lewis tells us a bit more about himself and his role at UNTHA UK. Find out what he believes it takes to be a great shredder partner and which is his favourite machine…
Name: Dean Lewis
Job title: Area sales manager
Summarise your role in one paragraph
In essence, I supply our customers with solutions. This usually involves face to face meetings with clients, where I assess how we can meet their needs, and, in certain instances, solve any issues which may have arisen with other manufacturers. Part of my role is to maintain complete and up to date knowledge of all our machines, to enable me to provide the best-fit solution for each individual case.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
It’s meeting the customers, getting to grips with their problems and seeing their reactions when they view a trial with one of our machines. The quality of these shredders knows no bounds, and always exceeds peoples’ expectations.
Which one word would your colleagues use to describe you?
Honest.
What does it take to be a great shredder partner?
Quite simply, be truthful, supportive and flexible. Get the basics right and you will gain trust and respect from both new and existing customers.
If one of your shredders could win an award, which would be most worthy?
It would have to be the RS40. The four shaft shredding technology has stood the test of time, and this machine is truly dependable. Used as a standalone shredder or as part of a more comprehensive system, it is incredibly versatile, and it has been developed to deal with a variety of applications. From confidential & WEEE waste to anaerobic digestion, for me this is one of our most robust and reliable shredders.
The phone rings and it’s your dream client… who would it be?
Somebody who is open to suggestions. What I try to do is provide the best solution – although it may not always be what the customer first had in mind. But, at UNTHA we always find the most cost-effective solution for each individual client.
Describe your most satisfying shredder sale/installation to date (machine & application)
Installing one of our powerful LR1400 wood shredders for a business down in North Wales, who wanted a solution for their surplus wood pallets. The customer was incredibly apprehensive about wood waste being shredded, and the capabilities of our machines to carry out this task. However, upon viewing this high-performing shredder in action, they were bowled over, and placed an order immediately.
UNTHA has received particular praise for its customer support services in recent months – why are these so important for clients in the modern waste and recycling industry?
Honestly, I think this is important in all industries, today more than ever, as we are facing such challenging times. Buying a shredder from UNTHA is very similar to buying a car from a showroom. You want the level of service where you know everything will be taken care of. Everyone wants that peace of mind in any large investment they make, and we are no different.
What are your hopes for UNTHA in the coming year?
To continually grow our aftersales support packages. Because our machines are so long-lasting, it isn’t just the case of a shredder sale – it’s a partnership which can last decades.
What is the biggest challenge facing the industry over the next 12 months?
Without doubt, the uncertainty of Brexit. Whilst legislation is up in the air, people are so hesitant to make future plans.
Personally, I think in the long term we can make the best of a difficult situation. Once the storm has passed, we will know exactly what it is we are up against, and can face the future together.