Tell us a little bit about you and your company
I work for Midwich, one of the largest audio-visual distribution companies in the UK and globally. We operate across almost every continent, supplying anything and everything to do with audio and visual technology. Here in Bracknell, we mainly focus on LED video screens for airports, concerts, football stadiums and special events. We have every screen size imaginable, from 32” to 98”.
I am the Sales Fleet and Operations Manager for England and Ireland. I probably speak to every site, every day. I’ve been around for quite a while and have a wealth of experience in many areas. For a lot of people, the easy route is simply to “just ask Bob,” which is something I take great pride in.
Can you give us some background to your working career?
Before joining the AV industry, I spent 24 years working in print, running finishing machines and managing mailing lines. In my late twenties, an opportunity came up to lead a team, which I took on and really enjoyed. I’m very detail-oriented, which lent itself well to logistics.
When processes weren’t in place, I developed them. After the company was sold, I moved into logistics with another organisation for about five years until they relocated to Poland. I’ve been with Midwich now for over seven years, progressing through roles as Warehouse Manager, Operations Manager and now Operations Support Manager.
Why are you a BID board director and why do you volunteer your time for the local business community?
It’s a great experience and gives me a different perspective on how businesses come together to support the area. I come from an operations background, while many others on the board bring expertise from other sectors. It’s very helpful to share ideas and look at challenges from different angles.
I’m really enjoying it so far. I recently joined one of the community walks Bracknell BID organises, it was a fantastic way to get out, meet people and get to know the area even better.
Why are you passionate about the Bracknell BID area?
It’s always nice to work somewhere that feels looked after. I’ve been based in Bracknell since Midwich opened here, and I’ve seen the area develop over the years. Nobody wants to see litter everywhere, and it makes such a difference when spaces are well maintained. I’m particularly impressed with how Farleymoor Lake has been cleaned up. It’s great to have somewhere pleasant to walk and recentre during lunch.
What skills and experience do you bring to the BID board?
I bring a fresh perspective shaped by an operations background and a focus on practical solutions. I like to look at processes in detail and think about how things can work smoothly day to day.
What projects or initiatives that the BID has delivered are you most proud of?
Seeing improvements to public spaces, like the lake and the wider efforts to keep the area clean and welcoming, has been brilliant. Those small changes make a big difference to everyone working here.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I’m a keen golfer and a member of a local course near where I live. My wife and I also love going to see shows in London. We probably go six or seven times a year. We also quite enjoy traveling when we can get away.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?
The best advice I’ve received is: “Dress for the job you want, not the one you have.” It helps you get noticed and can really make a difference to how you’re perceived.