Let's Talk Our newest Trade Store – Taipan Adelaide has now officially opened which means it’s been all systems go as we hit the ground running in February! Alex, our Adelaide Branch Manager, started at Taipan in October 2022 and it already feels like he’s become part of the furniture. We thought we’d get the scoop on what makes Alex tick in this exclusive one on one interview, so you’re up with the play on what awesome skills and cool hidden talents Alex brings to the team!
Christina: Hey Alex, first of all, we’re all dying to know – who is your favourite Taipan staff member? If you say Neil, we’ll probably have to kick you to the curb, so choose wisely 😛
Alex: Haha I reckon Alex Neilson is pretty good…nah I should probably say Jade though, as he is my boss!
Christina: pffft Jade! We both know the real answer is Christina, but we understand you’re new and are trying to make a good impression. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Alex: Well, I have a young daughter, Anastasia. She’s just turned 4 and she keeps me pretty busy! When I have free time, not that I have much of that… I have a classic car that I maintain and even find time to drive occasionally, it is a 1974 Chrysler Centura that is hot rodded a bit. I used to have time to play guitar and hopefully will find it again some time.
Christina: That’s really cool! So, what made you get into the hydraulics industry to begin with?
Alex: Back when I was 17, I was looking for a new direction, my father had contacts in the industry and once I made a few connections, that lead to my first 11-year stint.
Christina: Nice! So, how many years of hydraulics experience do you bring to the team?
Alex: Just over 21 years of experience at present.
Christina: A wealth of knowledge hey! Is there an area of hydraulics that you love working in?
Alex: Ha, I have now worked in every area of the business that you can possibly be in. I started literally mopping floors, I’ve been on the tools through to State Manager and everything in between. If I had to pick a favourite though, it would definitely be a customer orientated position. Delivering service is the most important thing for me, I like to be better than the other guys and that is what keeps me motivated.
Christina: What’s it been like being a part of the team to get Adelaide up and running?
Alex: It has not been without challenges, but I will say it has definitely been rewarding. I’ve seen this place as a dirty slab covered in seagull poo to looking like a real warehouse! We’ve worked hard and gotten it to this point and it’s cool to finally see the fruits of our labour.
Christina: The hard work has definitely paid off! So aside from hydraulics consuming 99% of your life, what’s your favourite place in the world that you’ve visited and why?
Alex: I do love travelling around and seeing remote parts of the world when I get the chance. I’m originally from the UK so I travel back to visit family whenever I get the chance. There are many but a favourite place would be Santorini in Greece as my wife and I got engaged there. We are approaching our ninth anniversary!
Christina: Wow! That would have been a stunning spot to get engaged… think of all the photo opportunities!! Okay, lucky last question… if you were stuck on a deserted island, what three items would you take with you and why?
Alex: Easy! A knife, a piece of rope and a flint/lighter. They are the three things you should always have no matter where you are because they can always get you out of a tricky situation. I actually have them in my car at all times!
Christina: Hmm… I might need to add a few things to my shopping list 😉 Thanks for taking the time to answer all those questions Alex, it’s been an absolute pleasure getting to know you.
If any of you would like to have a chat with Alex, he’ll be here at the Adelaide branch, otherwise you can give him a call on (08) 8448 3969.
