Mike Bell celebrates 45 years with SSI Schaefer, having joined at the tender age of 15 and still shows no signs of slowing down.
Mike is passionate about working for SSI Schaefer and in his own words 'its more than just a job, I really enjoy coming to work each and every day, the teamwork is solid and the company continues to go from strength to strength, despite economic uncertainties.'
Starting out as an office junior, Mike has worked as an Internal Sales Representative, Sales Office Manager, PA to Marketing Manager and a Statistical Analyst before staying put in his current role as Customer Support Manager.
Mike has watched the company grow over the years since joining in 1964 and experienced many changes including the move from Basingstoke to Andover in 1994 and the decision to locate all manufacturing to Germany.
Mike said: "The installations of automated warehouse systems alongside increased levels of service and maintenance contracts are two areas that I have seen significant changes in during the past 12 months."
"SSI Schaefer is always in tune with the customer and has fulfilled the growing trend towards the role of automation within the warehouse as a result of tighter economic conditions and warehouse operators now look to SSI Schaefer for automated systems as a cost-effective way to reduce overall supply chain costs.
"The new Maintenance Partnership Programme has been implemented offering affordable on-going maintenance and support packages. SSI Schaefer understands how important it is to prolong the life of any system installed within a distribution centre and companies that rely on automation for ongoing operations cannot afford to be down for any significant length of time."
Mike concluded: "I am committed to SSI Schaefer and proud to be part of such a successful and global organisation that is all about the people we serve, the service we provide and looking to the future. I believe that I have given as much to the company as it has given me back and long may it continue."
As Customer Support Manager at SSI Schaefer, Mike is responsible for the link between the customer and the external sales force, which involves handling initial customer enquiries, providing quotes, drawing up contracts and processing orders.