In this issue we meet Russell, recently becoming part of the team following the acquisition of Aribus. Russell works within the team supporting customers who take network services from us such as landlines, mobiles and broadband.
“Thanks for agreeing to do this Russell. I know you’ve only recently joined us but could you start off by explaining your role within PSU?”
My role is essentially a telesales position selling landline and mobile services to new business prospects. In addition to this, I am also tasked with booking appointments for Nick and Adam for larger opportunities that require a face to face meeting.
“What areas of your work do you enjoy the most?”
There is nothing better than creating and identifying a new business opportunity, seeing it through to the end and closing the deal. This is very rewarding as you know that you are definitely doing something right and that all your hard work has paid off.
“What areas of your work do you find the most challenging?”
Probably cold calling, although, it is a challenge that I enjoy particularly when trying to gain interest within the first few seconds of a conversation. Most people view this as probably the most mundane and difficult area of sales, however, I believe this is a skill in itself as you constantly need to be thinking on your feet and trying to adapt to the personality and mood of the person on the other end of the phone.
“What jobs have you done before joining PSU?”
My first real job was working for a Wine Merchants in Worcester. I was involved in all aspects of the business, my roles included graphic design, product sourcing, sales and marketing. This is where I first gained an interest in sales, however, after 8 years working for the company I decided to find employment a bit closer to where I had recently moved in Cheltenham.
I started work for Mitie PLC, where I began selling proofing recommendations made by nationwide technicians and soon moved into selling environmental, waste disposal and pest control contracts to large, blue chip organisations such as Sainsburys, Network Rail and large retail outlets. After 12 months, I was promoted and was responsible for the operation and performance of a small sales office. Whilst I enjoyed my time at Mitie and whilst being reasonably successful, I didn’t have much empathy for the product.
From there I went into sales in the telecom industry selling landline and mobile services which I had more of an interest and understanding in and the rest is history.
“What sort of holidays do you enjoy most, culture vulture or worshipping at the sun altar?”
I am definitely more of a culture vulture as I get far too bored sat on the beach or by a pool all day (unless there is a bar close at hand of course.) I am very interested in different religions, cultures and ways of life. I like to plan my own holidays and stay away from the pre planned tours organised by the big operators in order to stay off the beaten track and ultimately have a better experience.
“Where have you been in the world and where would you go back to?”
I have visited most European countries, however, I do prefer to go a bit further a field to South East Asia and South America. My favourite destination would probably be Koh Chang (Elephant Island) in Thailand. It is not commercialised, It is picture perfect with unspoilt tropical beaches, Waterfalls, and lots of natural wild life including elephants hence the name. It’s the perfect place to truly relax.
“Where would you like to travel to in the future?”
I would like to visit Uganda to see the mountain gorillas. And I would particularly like to take my wife’s parents there as that's where they grew up before being exiled by Idi Armin in the 70’s.
“What do you like to get up to in your spare time?”
Not as much as I would like to. But I enjoy going to the Cinema or eating out with my family and friends.
“Sports you’ve participated in?”
Judo
Kick Boxing
5 a side Football
“What sort of music do you have on your ipod?”
I have a varied mix of House, Jazz Funk, Soul and Rock. However, I appreciate all types of music as long as it's not manufactured rubbish.
“What cars have you owned during your life, and which was the favourite?”
Metro, Seat Ibiza, Austin Maestro, Polo Sport Coupe, Peugot 306, Golf TDI, Saab 93 Aero.
My Seat Ibiza was probably my favourite because it had a Porsche System Engine, I’m not sure what that means but when I was 18 it sounded impressive.
“If money was no object, which car/s would you choose to own?”
1. Ford GT – if money was no object
2. VW Carmen Ghia – A car I plan to buy and possibly restore over the next couple of years.
“What are your life goals? Where do you see yourself in 20 years time?”
To be successful doing something that I thoroughly enjoy and to earn enough money for me and my family to live without want. In 20 years I will hopefully be enjoying early retirement if the above works out for me.
Finally some quick-fire questions:
1. “Favourite film” - Withnail & I, the ultimate cult classic.
2. “Favourite actress” – Jessica Alba (a choice based purely on acting ability)
3. “Favourite television program” – I am very much into American T.V. shows, however, it has to be a toss up between The Sheild or the Sopranos
4. “Favourite televised sport” – As my dads side of the family are from Liverpool so watching the Reds play every week was very much part of my up bringing however I equally enjoy the boxing.
5. “Favourite author” – Warren Fellows
6. “Favourite holiday destination” – Thailand
7. “Favourite night out” – In years gone by I would have said Miss Money Penny’s in Birmingham or the Canal Club in Wolverhampton however as I have matured I definitely prefer to settle for some live music down at the Camden Jazz Cafe
8. “Favourite music” – Jazz Funk
9. “Favourite band” – Incognito
10. “Favourite inspiring quote” – Not really very inspiring but one of my favourite nonetheless.: “Even a stopped clock tells the right time twice a day, and for once I'm inclined to believe Withnail is right. We are indeed drifting into the arena of the unwell”
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