SEControlsAtForty: 3 questions with Martin Oates

SEControlsAtForty: 3 questions with Martin Oates

As part of the SEC@40 campaign SE Controls conducted a series of short interviews with some of their longest-serving colleagues. In this piece, they have interviewed their Director of Global Sales, Martin Oates:

Q: Hi Martin, to set the scene, talk us through a normal working day if you can?

A: What is a ‘normal day’ these days? Over the years my role has evolved, and I now have input into Product Development, Marketing, and the commercial strategy whereas maybe a few years ago I was more focussed purely on traditional sales activity. Also, my role has become much more global as more and more of our sales come from export and our subsidiaries. Supporting and motivating the domestic sales teams is still the key though. No two days are ever the same and priorities often change very quickly but optimising my day whilst remaining accessible to all is critical in my role.

Q: Looking back, what are you most proud of in your time with the business?

A: Being a part of the continual growth of the business in now my twenty-fifth year is very pleasing in general. I am particularly proud of our Tested Solutions program as that has made a real difference in the market. Buildings are safer because of that initiative which really delivers on what SE Controls is all about. The business won’t stop evolving though and we have built an incredible team that is packed with talent, knowledge, and a work ethic to maintain our leading position and reputation within the industry. Knowing I was one of the first employees and that I have been influential in assembling that team is very satisfying.

Q: What are your hopes for the business in the next 10 years?

A: We are still trading in extremely challenging times. COVID-19 hasn’t gone away yet and the entire industry is facing increased costs and delays of key components. The business is performing incredibly well during this period which is a compliment to everyone within the organisation. Despite this trading environment, we continue to invest in product development, infrastructure, and our future strategy because, for all the right reasons, the smoke ventilation industry is shifting towards improved and tighter regulatory and methodology changes. SE Controls are at the vanguard of that shift and are involved in lots of initiatives and professional organisations to deliver these improvements. I think maintaining our leading position in the industry and using that position to lead the way in bringing about these changes in the industry would be my objectives for the next 10 years.”

Add to Project Board

Create a new project board:


SE Controls

SE Controls

SE Controls is a leading international specialist in the design and delivery of Smoke Control and Environmental Ventilation systems. Through façade engineering solutions and intelligent automation technology, SE Controls optimises the life-safety...
View company profile
T(01543) 443060
F(01543) 443070
Einfo@secontrols.com
WVisit SE Controls's website
 Lancaster House, Wellington Cres, Fradley Pk, Lichfield, Staffs, WS13 8RZ

Make an enquiry to SE Controls

You may also be interested in this related Company News: SE Controls Raises The Bar At ZAK London World Of Façades Conference Read Now