| Barrie-John
Williams (above), Chemical Engineering with Minerals
Processing Engineering, Birmingham. Joined Chemicals
Business Unit in 1995.
'When I talked to my university friends at the time, I realised what a high level I was working at from the outset. They were sitting in offices doing small projects, whereas I was commissioning an expanded silver nitrate plant, working in the real commercial world, getting the best out of people and improving the quality and throughput of the product.
After a year, I moved from development to production. I liked the change in pace as the work was continuous with challenging targets. I was constantly doing something different: making decisions, sorting problems and providing technical advice. During that time Johnson Matthey supported my educational needs - I wanted to learn Chinese, which I did at evening classes!
This led to a fabulous opportunity based in Hong Kong in a commercial role providing technical and marketing support to local sales managers across Asia. I used my technical skills to understand customer's needs and provide solutions - while seeing places I never dreamed I would visit.
Following the shift into a commercial role I’ve never looked back, I moved from Hong Kong to New York City to manage our US jewellery sales team. It was another set of challenges to maximise sales opportunities, motivate staff and solve problems. There were always opportunities to be grabbed and I loved the fast paced, commercial thrust of the Big Apple.
My latest role is back in the UK where I manage a commercial team in our Noble Metals business. My team and I cover a vast range of products and our territory covers most of the planet. I’m looking for growth and opportunities whilst steering my team and developing their skills so they can advance within Johnson Matthey too.
Looking back I can't believe what a wonderful ride it's been and how lucky I have been. I've already experienced such wide range of roles and environments - both technical and commercial. I have gained management skills and know what it takes to run a business. I now look forward to whatever's next and what Johnson Matthey can throw at me! ' |
