This Careers Week, we’re putting the spotlight on the people who make CU Phosco shine. From their career paths to their achievements, we’re exploring how our team members are shaping their futures in the lighting industry.
Today, we meet Andy Southgate, Export Manager at CU Phosco. Andy oversees export sales across North America, South America, and French-speaking territories.
HI ANDY! CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR ROLE?
I work in Export Sales and joined CU Phosco in February 2025 as Export Manager.
WHO DO YOU WORK WITH?
Our Export team consists of three Export Managers, one Export Commercial Assistant, and one Export Director. Externally, we collaborate with a global network of agents, distributors, direct customers, specifiers, and consultants.
HOW DID YOU GET INTO LIGHTING?
Honestly, it was by chance. After spending 18 years in Asia working in the steel industry, I was looking for a new challenge. The opportunity at CU Phosco came up at just the right time, and it felt like the perfect next step.
WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE JOINING THE LIGHTING INDUSTRY?
I worked for the French steel industry across the UK, Paris, and Southeast Asia. In Asia, my role involved managing a network of agents and sales offices stretching from Mumbai, India to Sydney, Australia.
WHAT DO YOU MOST ENJOY ABOUT LIGHTING?
I love that our work makes a real difference. We help customers improve their environments while also massively reducing energy consumption. It’s rewarding to see the tangible impact lighting can have.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE LOOKING TO ENTER THE LIGHTING INDUSTRY?
Go for it! Decide which area excites you—sales, product design, lighting design, etc. There are so many facets to the business, there’s something to suit every skill set and interest.
Thanks Andy! For more information about roles in lighting, read our Careers in Lighting blog.