Just Call Me Brett
Our newest interview is with Jonathan Brett (everyone calls him Brett), Sales Manager for the new TAF UK office in Walsall, West Midlands. We sat down with Brett to learn more about his early years in the UK, experience in the exhibition and live entertainment industry, and how things have been going with the TAF UK office since it opened in February this year.
Can you tell us about where you grew up in the UK and some things about your early years?
I grew up in Birmingham. At an early age, I was taught the craft of stone masonry, which was the family business. I was busy with this job growing up and all through High School.
Did you have interest in truss and the entertainment business before starting in this industry or did a series of events lead you into it?
I always thought I would be a stone mason, but after graduating from High School, I was presented with an opportunity to work in the exhibition and live event industry. I immediately decided to take this job and leave stone masonry behind.
From my very first day on the job, truss was all around me. I remember thinking that it was like a big Meccano (Erector) set for adults. It was very difficult in the early days. I was working long hours during the day, at night and on the weekends.
As an eighteen-year-old, it was amazing to see how the company I worked for could build up these truss structures and fill an empty exhibition hall. After only one week on the job, I knew this was the industry for me. Over the years, I slowly worked my way up through the company and then through the group.
What experience have you gained over the years in the sale, use and installation of truss and support structures, as well as other related activities?
Since I started in this industry at such a young age, I gained a wide range of experience in countless projects. I learned how important it was to be honest with clients, not over promise on our work, and provide advice on a wide range of products and other topics.
Not many people are familiar with truss and how versatile it can be. I take it as my responsibility to inform our customers about its many benefits the many amazing things you can build with it.
After working on so many different projects, are there any that stand out?
I have worked on some amazing projects in many different sectors over the years, from concept to completion. The ones I remember most are the one that were the most difficult. They stick in my mind. The ones that I enjoy most are when I can take a pencil drawing from a client, turn their idea into a sketch, and then brining this sketch to life.
The new TAF UK office was launched in February of this year. Can you tell us what led to its establishment, your current responsibilities and what a normal day looks like for you?
After working in a company for 25 years that sold truss, it was really exciting, and logical, for me to be part of this new office for a truss manufacturer. With its opening, I knew all of my hard work over the years had paid off.
Having TAF (Truss Aluminium Factory) and their global team of experts assisting us with the products and custom orders is a really good feeling. All of the TAF offices work together and we have weekly meetings with TAF headquarters to help push the brand forward.
A normal day for me starts with answering emails, and following up on other messages, before starting my commute to the TAF UK office. My main responsibilities are taking care of new enquiries, fulfilling orders, managing stock, and managing other day-to-day activities that are constantly changing due to the nature of the products we are selling and various operations of the TAF UK office.
What are the products and services TAF UK offers?
We sell the full range of TAF products and keep a healthy supply of truss and accessories in our large warehouse in Walsall. As a result, we are able to keep TAF’s “Truss on Time” promise with same day or next day dispatch of orders to customers across the UK and Ireland.
Regarding services, we offer in-house custom design & engineering services, turn-key solutions, structural calculations & ballast options for bespoke projects, printed graphics & lighting for events, and painting & powder coating of truss in any color. From initial concept planning & CAD renders, to delivery & installation, we fully cover your needs for small to large projects and events.
What are the plans for the TAF UK office going forward and your role in them?
We are still in the early days of our operations as TAF UK. The office has only been open for a little over six months, but things are already moving fast. We have just added three full-time members to our team this month and are looking to recruit one more for an administration role.
In the near future, we plan to expand our space to include a full showroom of products that will include lighting. We also plan to launch an e-shop.
The TAF brand is always looking to the future and coming with new ideas. I encourage continuous development in our office and regularly exchange ideas with members of our staff.
Can you talk about your hobbies or other activities that interest you?
I really enjoy fishing and the “quiet time” it provides. I also like relaxing at home with my family, going out to new restaurants with them, and watching Formula 1. One of my favorite things to do is travel. I love to see and experience new places.