Scott’s been part of the F. Ball team for about 18 months now, having joined as technical representative covering the south coast counties of Dorset, Hampshire and parts of West Sussex, as well as Wiltshire and Oxfordshire. Customers in Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Wight will also be familiar with him.
Originally from Southampton, Scott’s 27 years in flooring retail and distribution make him an industry stalwart. Though moving from retail to manufacturing has not been without challenges, as Scott explains: “In previous roles, I was standing on the sales floor, selling products. Now, I’m standing in front of contractors, trying to figure out what we need to do, or what’s gone wrong. It’s much more technical. I’m fortunate the background I have puts me in good stead and I like to be kept on my toes.”
Sounds interesting. Where did you work?
“After spending 17 years in various roles at a large retailer of floor coverings and beds, I moved on to other retailers, focusing on flooring, naturally. Later, I worked as a sales rep before taking on a regional sales manager role at one of the country’s leading flooring distributors.”
You might say you’ve earned your flooring stripes, then. Has anything surprised you since you joined F. Ball?
“I think most people would agree that F. Ball has a great reputation. Seeing it from the inside has been even more of an eye opener. Jobs can and do go awry and when it’s the contractor or end user’s fault, other companies aren’t interested. But F. Ball really does try and help where we can and it’s refreshing to see and be involved in.”
We’re pleased to hear that. Next, we were going to ask what the best part of your job is, but we think we already know?
“Helping customers out of a tricky situation, particularly when it’s tough, is something I get a lot of satisfaction from. Also, being able to get in and put things right quickly, before they become a major issue. Customers appreciate quick responses and it’s all part of the job.
“Apart from that, my work is interesting and takes me to all sorts of places. I’m still learning new things as there’s plenty to go at.”
Any highlights, Scott?
“I recently attended a job in a library in Oxford where they filmed library scenes for the Harry Potter films. It’s one of the oldest libraries in Europe, so it was pretty cool to experience something so historic – and part of Harry Potter!”
Tell us: what are your favourite F. Ball products?
“I know a lot of people say Stopgap 1200 Pro, but it really is great. It does pretty much everything and the fact it can be used over old adhesive residues can get you out of some difficult spots.”
That’s fair enough. Finally, what do you get up to outside of work? Any hobbies?
“Playing football and tennis. Caravanning is also a big passion of mine – mainly around the south coast. I don’t like to go too far due to the long drive back. If you’ve got kids as well, you’ll know what I’m talking about!”