Tell us about your career. I started in the hospitality industry as a 16-year-old working in a warehouse. Customers would come in to buy stock and when most of the warehouse staff would hide, I would approach the customers and found I enjoyed selling stock. My manager at the time saw this and promoted me to the sales team when I was 18. Then, at the age of 25, I was managing the sales team when the owner of the business sold to Bunzl, so I took on the Branch Manager role.
What keeps you inspired and motivated? My competitive nature keeps me wanting to better both myself and my team. As part of a large organisation like Bunzl you get to work with many quality people, which can be very inspirational. Customers have many choices so when they select you as their preferred supplier it’s a real buzz. Our business is always growing and there are always new challenges to overcome daily.
What has been your favourite Bunzl project? Fitting out the Hilton Surfers Paradise hotel. I worked with a consultant for about six months on the project and we were able to supply all the in-room items, plus kitchenware, crockery, cutlery, glassware and housekeeping items. We were on tight deadlines to ensure the hotel was able to open on time and the project went very smoothly.
What are you most proud of? The biggest highlight in my career is that I still have customers from when I first became an account manager at the age of 18 years old. I have assisted many businesses in achieving their goals, which is great, but maintaining strong relationships and trust is my biggest highlight.
Contact Damien with all your equipment requirements: Damien.Thompson@Bunzl.com.au
