Continuing with our series of interviews with our key team members, our Toowoomba Assistant Branch Manager, Hilton May, tells us what he loves about the equipment hire industry.
How long have you worked at Orange Hire?
Technically, not that long – although I’ve been based out of this very office for 3 years! Our branch was acquired by Orange Hire at the end of 2019 which has been great. It means we have additional structure and support to run the business as well as access to a much wider range of equipment.
What does a typical day of managing the branch look like for you?
Being a small branch, I wear a few different hats. On any one day, I could be preparing equipment hire quotes, negotiating contracts, sorting out transport, addressing breakdowns, scheduling servicing, purchasing new gear & supplies, working on WH&S tasks, and of course sticking my head into a few Zoom meetings.
What’s the most important thing to get right in our industry?
Customer relations – hands down.
What are your main priorities at work at the moment?
Overall I’m focusing on increasing revenue and keeping repairs and maintenance costs down (aren’t we all!).
How long have you been in the hire industry?
About 3 years.
What was your very first job, or have you had any unusual jobs?
Most of my career has been in sales, but in my first six years of work, I did cabinetmaking and joinery as well as spray painting.
What drives you bananas?
Communicating with suppliers who drop the ball when it comes to service. I think when you work for a company that provides such great customer service, you hold everyone else to pretty high standards too.
Can you tell us a memorable moment from your career?
When I was in sales In 2008, during the GFC, I pulled off a single order that exceeded my monthly sales target by 4 times.
Name 3 people you’d like to sit down to lunch with?
My wife… more often!
Where did you grow up?
I’m Brisbane born and bred.
What do you get up to when you’re not at work?
I enjoy reading, 4WDing on the beach, tennis, basketball, footy, and bike riding with my kids.
And lastly, Orange Hire is all about positive, passionate and safe people. What are you passionate about – what do you really love about what you do?
I am passionate about building great customer relationships, to the point where a client will always call me first, because they know I care and will go the extra mile to provide excellent service.
Contact Orange Hire Toowoomba
Give Hilton a call any time on 0417 015 208 or in the office at 07 3547 8160.
Hilton can help you with all your earthmoving equipment rental needs, as well as providing honest advice on the right machine for the job.
