CU Phosco’s series of celebrating long-serving employees continues with EMEA Export Manager, Lee Sanderson, who is celebrating 25 years with the business.
As an Export Manager, his role sees him working with our Partners in Europe, Africa and the Middle East to ensure CU Phosco products reach their intended destinations on time, so that projects can be completed.
We sat down with him to find out the reasons why he’s stayed with us for so long.
“What’s your CU Phosco journey looked like so far?”
I first joined the business in October 1989 as an Apprentice Draughtsman, I was in that role for seven years before I left in 1996. I returned to CU Phosco in September of 1999 as Export Executive, tasked with developing our status in the European Market which has seen us move from strength to strength. In 2007 I was promoted to Export Manager after my colleague and close friend, Ron Evans retired.
“Having been with CU Phosco for such a long time, what’s been the biggest change in the industry?”
Without a doubt, the introduction of LED technology. It’s been an absolute game changer to the lighting industry. Lights have become more powerful, more efficient and much more cost-effective.
“Are there any fond memories in the past 25 years that you look back on?”
I’ve got a wealth of great memories from working at CU Phosco, like time spent with colleagues who are no longer with us, like Ron Evans, who was Export Manager for the Middle East before he retired. I was also very close with our former Export Director, Cliff Richardson, he taught me so much as well as being a good friend.
I spent a lot of time on site with Nigel Wells, a former Contracts Manager, we had a fantastic working relationship, seeing a lot of projects through to completion together. Lastly I have to mention my good friend Michael Ryan of Eccles Court in Ireland, a fantastic Agent for the business, as well as a fantastic friend.
I’m lucky enough in my job to be able to visit amazing countries throughout the year, I’ve had some brilliant times in Qatar, Morocco, Norway, Romania, Dubai – there’s too many to mention!
“What’s kept you here Lee? What’s so enjoyable about working at CU Phosco?”
My role here is incredibly varied, I’m in a role that utilises my technical experience across all areas of the business, it keeps me switched on and firing on all cylinders.
On top of this, I’m at a company that is full of fantastic people who aren’t afraid to pitch in and work together. When you come into work knowing that everyone is there to support you, and you them, it makes it that much better.