Simpson Strong-Tie, world-leading specialist in connectors and structural systems for the construction industry, has announced the appointment of a new Area Sales Manager, to cement its position as a leading supplier to the Irish market.
Paul McSorley has been tasked to grow Simpson’s Irish customer base, identifying specific industry sectors with which to build long-term relationships.
NIB – How did your career get started?
Paul McSorley – I started working for my family’s construction business when I was about 10. I started my sales career at Coca-Cola as a merchandiser and worked my way up to area manager.
Then, I moved to the pharmaceutical sector, where I spent the next 25 years.
NIB – What have been the main takeaways from your experience so far?
PM – I learnt the best lessons in my career, at Coca-Cola, where we were taught the science behind the selling process. It’s all about how the customer is positioned and the lengths we must go to, to provide them with an outstanding level of customer service, support, and professionalism.
I have always been a believer in building long-term commercial relationships with customers, and this is my guiding principle.
NIB – What are the plans for your new role?
PM – I am going to keep building strong partnerships with customers both old and new across Ireland, both North and South.
On a longer-term strategy, I am hoping to grow our builders’ merchants and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) business across the country by positioning best-in-class products alongside superior technical support and customer service.
NIB – It is still early days, but do you foresee any challenges?
PM – The construction industry in Ireland has undergoing multiple challenges over the past few years, from COVID 19 to Brexit. Thankfully now there is a lot more positivity, but we still are experiencing shortage in labour, increased prices for materials and product shortages.
NIB – What does the new role mean to your career?
PM – It is a privilege to work for Simpson Strong-Tie.
The founder Barclay Simpson believed in nine guiding principles: relentless customer focus, long-range vision, high-quality products, being the leader, everybody matters, enabling growth, risk-taking innovation, giving back, having fun and being humble. These company values guide the decisions taken by every employee, every day.
NIB – What do you like to do in your free time?
PM – Having three teenage children keeps my wife and me on our toes to work out logistical challenges around the kids and their hobbies. In my spare time, I follow most sports and play golf.
T: +44 (0)18 2725 5600
