Meet the Team: Kyle Malcolm
In this feature, we speak with Kyle Malcolm, F. Ball’s East of England technical representative and flooring industry stalwart.
Kyle joined F. Ball in summer last year, but he’s been familiar with the company and products for many years, having worked in various roles within flooring.
He laughs as tells us about his less than conventional entry into the industry: “Being honest, it was via someone from the pub. He part owned a family business selling furniture and flooring to the public and after a pint (or two), somehow roped me in. Initially I was delivering furniture and later moved over to the flooring side.
“I worked on the retail side largely in sales, visiting customers‘ homes for estimates and talking to them about their needs and the products we had. Now and again, I also did a few bits and pieces of fitting.”
Kyle goes on to explain he later worked for a major national flooring distributor, further building his expertise and networks in the trade.
“I think, like in most jobs, there came a point when I wanted to develop and progress my skills, and a fresh challenge was needed.” he says of moving on after seven years. “So, I looked outside the company and found that F. Ball was hiring. I felt the role would take me out of my comfort zone.
We’re very glad Kyle made the leap. We ask him about all the expertise he brings with him and what skills he is looking to enhance.
He continues: “Working with people has always been something I have done. Of course, I’m already well versed in F. Ball products, it’s just a case of fine tuning the right product for the right circumstances.
“Some of the more technical aspects of this role are perhaps a learning curve, but if I come across something I’m less familiar with, I can speak with our Technical Services team, and we can work it out between us.”
Sounds like he’s settled in well. Next, we find out about some challenges.
Kyle says: “Well, for example, I recently had a site visit at an NHS hospital to take a look at an existing flooring compound that had failed to bond. Turns out it was 10 years old. No-one could tell me what it was or had any details, and having discussed it with our Technical Services, we’re recommending removing it before commencing with a new installation. It’s not worth the risk, especially with the various medical equipment that will be installed over it.”
When we ask how his experience has been so far, Kyle shares: “Brilliant! The whole company, the people, everyone is really supportive and has a smile on their face. It really does feel like a family. And to be honest, I knew it would be good. As a market leader, F. Ball is respected within the industry, and the induction has been fantastic.
“I’m an outdoorsy person, so being out on the road most of the time and meeting people or site visits suits me down to the ground.”
Finally, we want to know what Kyle’s favourite F. Ball products are.
“That’s a good question!” he says before having a think. “Styccobond F49 – for its various strengths and uses. And Stopgap 1200. It’s trustworthy, reliable, and you always know what you’re getting.”
