Retirement: Jim Bimbi

After an impressive 37 years with SAIT UK, Regional Sales Manager for Scotland, Jim Bimbi, retires at the end of February 2023. We caught up with him to ask about his career with SAIT UK, what he has enjoyed most and the future that he sees for the company.

How Did You End Up Joining SAIT UK?

From the age of 16, I was a mechanical engineering apprentice, building coal cutting machinery for Anderson Strathclyde in Motherwell. Following 11 years in a factory environment, I decided that it wasn’t where I wanted to stay long-term. I liked the idea of being able to generate more money and that in general increased efforts meant increased rewards. So, in 1985, I accepted a role as Technical Sales Representative at SAIT UK (then known as Technical Abrasives), as part of what was then a team of 15 salespeople and three sales managers.

What Have You Enjoyed Most About Your Time With SAIT?

I have most enjoyed meeting all the customers, many of whom have become firm friends. I have also enjoyed selling the product – a good quality product is always a pleasure to sell – and communicating the capabilities and benefits of the product through testing. I have also seen a lot more of Scotland than I would have done had I not been out on the road, which is another pleasant aspect to the role

I have also enjoyed going out and training other area managers – a great chance to share knowledge and experiences across different areas.

What Have Been Your Personal Highlights of Being With SAIT?

One of the most notable highlights was going to Italy for the first time – at the time it was a reward for meeting target, and I went out with two others in February 1987. Not having been to Italy before, and thinking it would be relatively warm, I filled my suitcase with t-shirts and shorts. As it was in fact very cold, I ended up having to essentially buy an entirely new wardrobe whilst I was out there. But it was a great experience overall.

Also, over the last 20-25 years, I have achieved the highest turnover area-wise which has been a big motivation of mine to maintain. And I am also proud to have not lost too many customers over the years.

Where Do You See the Company Being in the Future?

I see SAIT UK as having a network of quality distributors across the UK that appreciate our vision, as well as an ever-increasing training emphasis – I think the most exciting thing about this emphasis will be to see the confidence that it inspires in customers to go out and become ambassadors for the SAIT brand. Couple this with tailored field support and there'll be prosperity for both parties.

Why Should People Join the SAIT Team?

Having the freedom to do what you think is correct is a big selling point for being part of the SAIT team: I’ve been able to blaze a trail, form ideas and create my own way of working. Also, managers are easily accessible and easy to talk to, a benefit which can’t be underestimated.

Finally, the staff a great bunch of people – honest and supportive. As an area manager, you can’t hide – the figures speak for themselves. You can be a great salesperson out on the road, but if you can’t get the goods out, it ultimately reflects on you. That’s where the office team are vital in us maintaining good relationships and I’ve very much appreciated that input over the years.

We thank Jim wholeheartedly for his contributions to the success of SAIT UK and wish him all the best in his retirement.