Pickerings Lifts
Pickerings Lifts is the largest independent lift manufacturer in the UK. Headquartered in Stockton-on-Tees, the company provides national coverage from a network of seven offices across the UK.
Offering standard and specialist passenger, goods and access lifts, escalators and loading systems products as well as maintenance, modernisation and repair services, Pickerings Lifts is one of the oldest engineering firms in Britain having been founded in 1854. With its unrivalled heritage within the industry and outstanding customer service, Pickerings Lifts is committed to innovation and company advancement. For more information visit Pickerings Lifts’ website at www.pickeringslifts.co.uk
What brought you to this industry?
I came into the industry purely by chance. After leaving the military in South Africa and getting involved within specialist engineering I decided to move back to the UK and Pickerings Lifts was recruiting. They had a great reputation and I wanted to take my career further within the industry. The rest is history.
What’s the most exciting thing about your job?
I enjoy what I do. No day is like the one before it. I find being able to find a solution to a problem exciting. It’s also incredibly rewarding to see the products we’ve invested in as a company benefiting our clients.
Who inspired you most in your career?
Many people have inspired me throughout my career, but to name just one would be difficult. Instead it’s more about their approach. Over the years I’ve been lucky enough to work with some great people who have shown faith in me and let me experiment and try new things.
If you were an item in a warehouse, what would you be?
Without question I would be the pallet on the highest shelf in the warehouse. Why? Because I could see what everyone else was doing, keeping an eye on them and also because I would be less likely to be hit by a forklift truck up there!
If you had to do it all over again, what would you do different?
I don’t have any regrets, but if I could start over again I would take more risks. I suppose that’s the beauty of hindsight.
What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you at work?
Minutes before I was due to demonstrate a new product to a client I broke it. All I could do was think on my feet and come up with a solution around it. Thankfully the client was understanding and could see how great the product was.
Who or what makes you laugh?
People. I’m an unashamed people watcher. People do the strangest and funniest things when they don’t know they are being watched.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I do, but I’m not telling you as they wouldn’t be hidden for long!
Who would be your favourite party guest?
Just one? I can think of loads that I would like to have a drink with. My first would be Ewan McGregor. Not only does he look like he’d be a laugh but we also share a passion for motorbikes. I would also like to invite the cast of Gavin and Stacey – it’s a brilliant show and has me in stitches every time, especially Smithy and Stacey. My final choice would be Hilary Clinton. I’d like to see whether she can maintain her composure after a few glasses of wine – she seemed so extraordinarily posed after her husband’s very public scandal and I’d like to see if the mask slips.
What is the greatest luxury in your life?
I don’t know what the greatest luxury is, but the one I couldn’t live without is my Blackberry. I don’t know what I ever did without it.
What is your favourite guilty pleasure?
I don’t have a guilty pleasure (well, not one I’m willing to share) but I love to travel – it’s a passion of mine. This year I’m planning on visiting France, Ibiza, USA and Spain.
Do you have any secret ambitions?
You should be proud to be ambitious. I’m far too outspoken to keep mine secret.
What’s your dream holiday destination?
The Maldives. It’s the perfect place to relax. It’s the most tranquil and beautiful place on Earth.
What are your three favourite movies of all time?
I rarely watch a film more than once, so if I do it means it’s something special to me. Point Break with Patrick Swayze and Keanu Reeves, Reservoir Dogs and another Tarantino classic, From Dusk till Dawn would be my all time favourites.
What is your favourite book of all time?
I’m not a big reader. But one book I carry with me when I travel is Awaken the Buddha Within: Tibetan Wisdom for the Western World by Surya Das. A great insightful read and really makes you think about the way you live your life.
What’s your favourite pastime?
I love walking with my children. They are three and six years old so they’re both at those stages when everything is still exciting and there to be explored – it’s great fun.
If you won the Lottery, what would you do?
Nothing. I would still come to work and do what I do now. Winning the Lottery wouldn’t change my life, but instead enhance it.
What would be your advice to someone thinking about coming into the industry (apart from “don’t do it”)?
Never be afraid to push boundaries and explore every option. Take risks and enjoy it.
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