Tara Lee Smith is about to complete her first year as Business Development Manager, at ACS. Here she talks about her role – and how she wishes she’d started in construction years ago!
‘‘No-one is treated like a commodity”
I have been working for ACS for nearly a year now as a BDM. Having been in Sales for most of my professional life I can only say that I don’t sell anyone anything. My approach is to take ownership of a client, gaining their trust by ensuring they feel looked after so I can build a solid and authentic foundation on which I can build.
I’ve never taken anyone’s custom for granted. I still get a buzz when I get a job over the line, that in itself is addictive!
A typical day involves responding to many emails, attending, and setting up meetings, progressing jobs through to order, setting up credit accounts, chasing leads, liaising with our internal teams, processing new tenders, and ensuring any new leads are qualified and placed into the business with all information, whilst making sure we are updating our CRM system. On a wider scale, we have targets to achieve and KPI’s to hit, so this is also part of our remit.
I’ve always worked in construction related jobs, but mainly within the internal sector, looking after Kitchens, Joinery, and Carpentry packages. Taking the leap to join an industry which is new to me, and highly technical has been an enjoyable challenge – in fact I wish I’d done it years ago!
I’ve hit the ground running since joining the team, keeping all the cogs moving and making sure communication between departments is efficient. Longterm, I’m hoping Gateway 2 will come into effect. It’s incredibly important that the industry is regulated and recognises the importance of quality and correct Masonry support. It’s critical for the safety and longevity of buildings and I believe, as crucial as fire safety and building controls.
My personal goal is to gain as much knowledge as possible in the world of Masonry support, so I’m fluent in meetings and able to gain a deep understanding of what is being designed and sold to our clients. It would be amazing to join the team of Design Directors and advise on, and create the best solutions for our clients and in turn aid the success of ACS.
My spare time is mainly dominated by looking after my seven horses. I’ve competed at all levels and recently taken up in-hand showing with my younger horses and am very proud to say we’ve come away with some ribbons and prize money. I also own a Sphynx Cat who is the talking point of the office and most meetings thanks to her attention seeking ways!
ACS is a family run company, and it’s this which makes it special. Our CEO has a heart of gold and shows a genuine commitment to the progress of all employees. No-one is treated like a commodity and in the short time I’ve been here, it’s clear that everybody’s voice is heard.
I thought it would be daunting joining such a big team of people but I’ve felt so welcome; the company makes you feel really good in your role and so – you bloom!
Article originally published on 28th November 2024