Nixon Signs for Browns
We’re delighted to announce the ‘signing’ of Business Development Manager, Luke Nixon, as we look to bolster our attack leading into the new year. With two decades of sales experience, Luke has cemented himself as a successful and respected force in the logistics industry, after a 4-year spell with global supply chain leader EV Cargo, and its UK network subsidiary, Palletforce. Luke’s role at Palletforce saw him give commercial support to over 36 member depots across the north of England. Outside of work, Luke is a passionate Stoke fan, keen home cook and self-proclaimed foodie, with a love for all things spice! Luke's infectious positivity and passion for customer experiences is already helping to drive Browns to be the preferred transport and warehousing provider in Staffordshire and beyond. After linking up with the Browns team in September, and giving him time to get his feet firmly under the table, we caught up with Luke to give an insight into his life at Browns, and what he’s been up to so far. Without further ado, let’s get into it! Q: Hey Luke, how’s it going? Feeling settled? A: You know, I'm feeling really good. Everyone at Browns has made me feel so welcome since I joined, from drivers to the management team, we truly have a great set of employees which makes my job a lot easier. Q: First things first, a bit about you! Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to Browns? A: Where do I start? I've been in sales since I was 16, albeit retail, selling jeans! I always knew it was for me though. After spending 10 years within telecoms and then a few years across a few other industries I got approached to work within logistics. They say once you get into transport you can t get out, I understand why! It's fast-paced and I love how the industry operates. After working within a 4PL provider and pallet network which included a LOT of travelling, I needed to be closer to home and my family, the opportunity to work with Browns was presented to me, and after my first conversation with David Brown Jnr, I knew this company was for me. I'm really honoured to be given the opportunity and can't wait to help build brand awareness and growth in the coming years. Q: What have you been up to in your first two months? A: First I needed to understand the company and how we operate, I spent time with all the teams and understood how we did things. This gave me a real insight into what we did well, but also what we could improve on. I've spent time getting to know our existing customer base and getting feedback from them too. The great news is, that through this experience I have been able to welcome new customers to Browns already. Q: Previously coming from a Pallet Network sales role, how different is it on the member side of things? A: For me, the main difference is that I only have to sell one depot. This makes my job a lot easier and gives me a more focused approach. Whereas before, I would be selling for multiple companies, offering different rates and services. Don't get me wrong, it has its challenges and similar objections, but with the experience I have gained selling for a pallet network, I have the right tools to overcome these. Q: Notoriously tough, equally as rewarding. What’s the best thing about working in sales? A: I would be lying if I didn't say that one of the best things is the commission, all salespeople are driven by money; being able to write your own pay cheque is great! However, as I have gotten older, for me, it's about the relationships I can build. I get to meet people from all walks of life. I get the chance to understand them and in most cases become friends. I'm still in contact with a lot of my old customers and clients I have dealt with in the past. Q: If your business development skills were a superhero power, which superhero would you be, and why? A: The Hunter! ha ha. I've always enjoyed chasing that customer down and being persistent. Finally getting in front of that customer you have been chasing for so long and then coming out with a positive outcome. I imagine my superhero would be armed with business cards and brochures. Oh and comfy shoes for all of that canvassing! Q: Are there any specific avenues or new service offerings you’d like to explore at Browns if given the chance? A: Definitely! Browns are very good at what they do. But, it would be great to have more service offerings such as different trailer types. Container movements, flat bed etc. One complete curve ball too would be to make the most of our location and have a rail service offering, how cool would that be!? Q: Where do you think Browns is heading in the next 5 years? A: Growth, growth, growth! Otherwise, I wouldn't be doing my job properly! Ideally another new site for storage and maybe as per above, additional service offerings for our customers. Q: And finally, we know it’s only your second month… But if you had to match a colleague to the following categories, who would they be and why? Tech Wizard - Hayley P. or Karl L. Office Energiser - Apart from myself...definitely Janet. The energy she brings every day is undervalued. Best Taste in Music - Ha ha, definitely not Georgia (sorry). I like the diverse tastes we all have, to be honest, the Friday playlist always throws in some random music! Welcome to the team, Luke!
