Many things can be found in New Plymouth, bare feet, wind wands, and the stunning Len Lye Centre. But one thing in particular deserves a special highlight.
Let us introduce our small and mighty Taranaki team, helping shape the supply of steel to meet Taranaki's demand in an area where engineering, manufacturing, and agriculture is thriving.
New to his role but not to the steel industry, Sam started his journey 10 years back in a bulk pipe store, cutting, loading, and unloading trucks. After spending a few years on the floor picking pipe and fittings for the Oil and Gas industry, Sam decided to pursue a sales role.
"The new role really widened my product knowledge" Sam mentions. "Before my OE, I thoroughly enjoyed the different opportunities I had, from leading teams to operational roles."
After Sam’s two-year OE renovating houses in London, he decided to settle in the beautiful New Plymouth. "I loved my time overseas, but New Zealand was always my home and the place I wanted to settle back down in."
Sam's new role as Taranaki Branch Manager benefits heavily from his understanding of the steel industry, team skills, and work ethic for his customers.
"I want our customers to be successful in their sectors. My goal is to help our customers achieve this with reliable and prompt service."
Sam adds, "The New Plymouth branch has an amazing team, they have heaps of energy and are keen to excel in their roles to service our customers in the Taranaki region."
Marianne should write a Masterclass in customer service because you can feed her any challenge, big or small, and she'll have a solution for you with a smile on her face.
It's no mystery how she was promoted early in her career at Steel & Tube, but her background in steel goes much further.
Out of college, Marianne completed a welding and fabrication course which landed her a start in maintenance work for Fonterra, Auckland. Two years on, she took the opportunity to move to Taranaki and continue maintenance work with mostly stainless pipe and fittings, but also land-based rigs using carbon pipe and high-pressure fittings.
After five years in Steel & Tube New Plymouth, Marianne has now settled down in Taranaki with her partner and two-year-old son, living an active lifestyle hunting, fishing, and diving.
As a Store Supervisor, Marianne manages everything on the shop floor, from health & safety to organising the team and anything in between.
"I enjoy the challenge that the role brings and learning many different aspects of the business and how I can better manage myself and the team for a better outcome for our customers." Next time you're in the store, look out for Marianne.
Nicole is one to give anything a shot, and as an Account Manager in Taranaki, she's up for the challenge.
For those who haven't been to Taranaki, the landscape is as diverse as they come. From harsh coastal land to nourishing volcanic soils, producing spans of New Zealand's best agriculture. The region's businesses are no different, offering different and unique solutions you might not find anywhere else.
"What I like about my role is how I get to learn about my customers' unique businesses. Working through specific and detailed requests lets me build a meaningful connection with each customer. I enjoy watching their projects come to life."
Just like her netball, Nicole knows that success is a team effort, "I always try to do everything I can to ensure that the customer receives the level of service they deserve. The one goal I would like to achieve for any of our customers here at Steel & Tube is to exceed their expectations – so we make a lasting impact"
Visit out Taranaki team at 21 Swans Rd, Bell Block, New Plymouth 4312