Inspired by his parent’s drive which he saw from a young age, Sefton’s career has come full circle. With a depth of experience in the frame and truss industry, Sefton founded Fasteners New Zealand in 2014. Sefton’s vision to expand the reach of the business has resulted in the acquisition of Fasteners New Zealand by Steel & Tube.
The opportunity to remain in the frame and truss industry appeals as this is an area in which I’ve developed expertise over much of my career. Similar to many small business owners, I saw the potential of my business to expand further. We were effectively serving customers from Bay of Plenty and Waikato down to Wellington. Now that Fasteners New Zealand has been welcomed into the Steel & Tube family, we are able to offer an extended product range to our existing customers. We can also serve a larger range of customers across the country as we are backed by Steel & Tube’s nationwide sales, logistics and distribution networks.
The transition has been one I’ve been gearing up for over the last few months. The Fasteners New Zealand team have all felt very welcomed into the Steel & Tube family. The opportunity to share my knowledge and experience in the fasteners and truss industry has been valuable. Now that I’ve made the move from business owner who wears many hats to product specialist, I can focus on where I am able to add value while continuing to play a role in guiding the success of the business.
In a product specialist role, I am also able to continue building relationships with my customers which is a process I enjoy. I’ve enjoyed the enthusiasm of the Steel & Tube team in embracing the Fasteners New Zealand product range. As a result, I can feel confident that the business will be even stronger when backed by Steel & Tube’s resources and people.
It is certainly my parents as they are both high achievers. I have shared the Fasteners New Zealand journey with my father. He is a retired accountant and a shareholder in Fasteners New Zealand. I have enjoyed his guidance and mentorship throughout my time as a business owner. Today, he is a trusted advisor both personally and professionally which I’m greatly appreciative of. The business wouldn’t be where it is today without his support.
I am often fishing off the coast of the Bay of Plenty. It’s a family tradition of sorts to visit the family bach each year to relax. The events of the last year or so have reminded me of the importance of work-life balance and spending time with family when we have the opportunity. Looking ahead to the remainder of 2021, I am excited to take on a challenging role within the business I have worked to grow over many years.