BERU f1systems
Founded in 1993 and since 2001, a specialist division of BERU AG, Bf1systems offers advanced design and manufacturing facilities for vehicle wiring harnesses, tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), stress measurement and load cells, electronics and composites. Supplied to world championship winning cars in every major formula and every Formula 1 team, precision components from bf1systems are now available in military, road car, aerospace and nautical applications. Bf1systems’ long motorsport heritage has led to creative client solutions, the embodiment of new technologies and a rapid response capability. Now OE automotive and aerospace manufacturers are benefiting from this expertise for their electronic subsystems and components.
What’s the most exciting thing about your job?
Knowing that the items we manufacture and supply are going to be fitted onto the most advanced race cars, driven by the most skilful drivers and watched by millions of people across the globe. This gives me a massive buzz each day knowing that my part in the supply chain has helped to achieve this.
Who inspired you most in your career?
My father, Peter Randall has always inspired me, not by having anything to do within the industry, but by providing support and advice to me throughout my life and when my career path changed which led me on the road I now follow.
If you were an item in a warehouse, what would you be?
Scales… Measured, can take the pressure, weighs up the situation and always willing to share the load.
What brought you to this industry?
After beginning my early career in the catering industry, a change in focus and direction led me to work for electronic manufacturing company, Isotronics UK Ltd., and throughout the 10 years working there worked my way up the ladder to a point where my ambitions could only be met by moving on. By chance, an introduction at a social gathering led to an interview, which led to me working here at Bf1systems.
If you had to do it all over again, what would you do different?
Nothing, I believe that you learn from your past mistakes and achievements and it makes you into the person you are.
What’s your favourite pastime?
I enjoy a game of golf but far too often the time is not available to practice losing my balls. I also try to make time to get the lycra on and get out and about in the countryside for an energetic bike ride. More often than not, the good it does is out-done by the refreshing pint of lager I drink when I get back home!
What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you?
I can name a few, but won’t as these mostly involved Friday nights, alcohol and a sore head on the Saturday. Oh to be young again!
Do you have any hidden talents?
I’m pretty good at keepy-uppies!
Who would be your favourite party guests?
This would depend upon what sort of party I am having. For the formal dinner party then someone like Stephen Fry would be able to entertain my guests with a multitude of anecdotes, whilst for an all out booze up I would invite Oliver Reed and Liam Gallagher and watch the sparks fly.
What is the greatest luxury in your life?
Health and happiness! If you have both of these then whatever else life throws at you can be dealt with.
If you won the Lottery, what would you do?
Get a lift to the local Aston Martin dealership and drive away in a new V12 Vantage.
Who or what makes you laugh?
Give me any film like Dodgeball or There’s Something About Mary and I’ll usually end up rolling around in fits of laughter.
Do you have any secret ambitions?
Yep, they are secret.
What’s your favourite holiday destination?
Taormina, Sicily – The best place so far, helped by the fact we were entertained by spectacular “firework displays” every evening as Etna spurted into the night sky.
What’s your favourite music album?
I have a varied taste in music from classic eighties, (re-living my youth), through to modern “naughties” indie rock. At the moment I am listening to a lot of Elbow and Kasabian but still like to keep topped up with classic Blur, Coldplay and the like.
What’s your favourite movies?
In my opinion, you cannot beat a good sci-fi movie such as the Matrix and Alien series of films. Other favourites are The Shawshank Redemption and the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
What’s your favourite book?
Sorry to say I am more of a movie guy and don’t have the time to read much.
Who or what do you detest the most?
Being taxed on your earnings, savings, purchases and then your death.
What would be your advice to someone thinking about coming into the industry (apart from “don’t do it”)?
If you’re going to work within the motorsport industry, be prepared to work longer than normal hours, deal with tight customer deadlines and a fair amount of pressure. Be organised in your work but allow time within the day for those last minute fire-fighting situations. Make sure you have a great sense of humour and always look on the bright side of life!
If you would like to take part in this feature call 01923 272960
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