The ‘Wright’ Move for Derek

Derek Wright has set himself a new challenge, to become a leading Solutions Manager within SSI Schaefer focusing on the role of automation in today’s expanding logistics sector.

Starting out as a Junior Autoparts Sales Executive at the age of 19 before his promotion to MoD Account Manager, Derek, now 31, is relishing in his new role as Solutions Manager, focusing on combi-projects – installations that require both static and automated storage and distribution systems.

Moving from the MoD side of the business into automation was quite a transition for Derek, a steep learning curve and challenge that he has certainly risen to. Although now responsible for projects in the value of one million plus, Derek also supports Schaefer’s Regional Sales Managers on combi-projects at all value levels.

Derek said: "I moved into automation in order to set myself a new goal and continue to grow professionally – as one of the UK’s leading materials handling company, I knew I wanted to stay at SSI Schaefer but felt I had achieved all I could within the MoD department, achieving successful growth rate in terms of sales turnover.

"The role that automation has to play in today’s modern warehouse is exciting and I want to be a part of it – Schaefer’s capabilities within this area lead the way and are at the cutting edge in terms of innovation, design, and technology developments. I’m here for the long-term."

David Hibbet, Business Development Manager, Systems group, SSI Schaefer, said: "It is important that we continue to train and develop the skills of our workforce in all areas of the business – Derek’s transition from the MoD side was made easy with his eagerness to learn and is now a valued member of the automation team."