Crossing Continents: Our VP's Global Odyssey
Dani Knezevic, Global Brand & Communications Director (interim)
The summer is a great time to travel especially if you’re in a continent where cold weather is coming. Our newly appointed, and Australia-based VP of Marketing for the OBK division, Alex Grant, recently spent some time visiting North American offices this summer.
The goal was not only to gain a better understanding of the business, but also to meet the internal teams at these branches and to also speak with customers and CC representatives. As someone who understands the importance of being customer centric, Alex always takes the time to listen and understand customers’ current and future requirements. “I like to understand how we are doing, what areas we can improve, what the market is doing and what products/services our customers are looking for longer term,’ he added. ‘This information will guide us when deciding what areas can be improved and how to define our product roadmap.”
The tour started out in Elko, Nevada where Alex spent a week and had a chance to participate in the opening of the new Elko branch, an event that was second to none. The team did an amazing job taking customers on a tour of the Epiroc product lines. The 2-hour tour was engaging and brilliantly showcased Epiroc’s strength and presence in the market. He completed his visit by attending the Elko Mining Expo where Epiroc had a stand.
The next stop was North Bay, Ontario to meet some of the CC team and to meet with suppliers. Following that visit, Alex headed out for his first trip to Montreal and the Fordia facilities. This was an excellent opportunity to meet the internal teams and to visit the factories. “I was impressed with both plants, especially the set up at the rod plant - it made it very safe, efficient and clean,” he explained. Alex’s timing was great as he was able to attend Fordia’s annual BBQ and meet the team face-to-face, outside of a work environment.
Finally, the last stop was Garland, Texas facility for some planning time with the management team. The whole tour was a great way to discover the team’s passion for exploration. “There is a wealth of knowledge to draw from as we collaborate and strategize. I have a much better understanding of the business and look forward to meeting the team again later this year as we work to grow the OBK business.”
