James' journey with ABB is a testament to his dedication and passion for his work. His experiences and achievements serve as an inspiration for others to pursue their own paths with enthusiasm and commitment.
James has been a part of ABB since 2011 and is currently a member of the PAEN UK Sales Management team, serving as the Sales Manager for Key Accounts and Studies. His role revolves around three main areas: managing strategically important key accounts, guiding and developing other account managers, and leading the development of ABB's Study offering, including its sales strategy and oversight of the sales funnel. Additionally, he spearheads several large project pursuits linked to the accounts he manages.
James joined the sales team in 2018 as an Account Manager in the service and consulting team. This role evolved into a full portfolio position, and in 2022, he was promoted to his current role. Before joining ABB, James worked for Invensys's IMServ business as a project application engineer, where he was part of a team that engineered and installed systems to automate heating and lighting control for commercial buildings and retail outlets, aiming to reduce energy consumption.
James' fascination with large engineering and infrastructure projects, combined with his love for travel and working with different cultures, drew him to ABB. The company's reputation in its field sealed the deal for him. He started his journey at ABB on the graduate scheme as a graduate control systems engineer, where he was involved in all aspects of building a control system, from coding graphics and writing sequences to system testing and creating documents and drawings.
When James joined ABB, he was unsure of what to expect. He was looking for something to reignite his passion for work and career. The supportive and encouraging environment at ABB made his initial months and years very fulfilling. Over the years, he has experienced more ups than downs, and the positive changes within the company have kept him motivated and engaged. After 13 years, he still sees a bright future ahead with ABB.
Reflecting on his career at ABB, several moments stand out for James:
For those looking to pursue a career in Sales and Account Management, James advises investing time in understanding what the company does and how it operates. His engineering background provided a solid foundation for his sales career. He emphasizes the importance of listening to customers to understand their needs and learning from colleagues. Being curious, asking questions, and considering new ideas are crucial. Developing resilience, staying positive, and handling difficult situations with composure are also key. Most importantly, James believes in having fun and enjoying what you do. If not, it's time to make a change.
