With over a decade of immersion in the oil, gas, and marine sectors, Charles navigated a spectrum of roles that combine technical expertise with strategic leadership. Charles’s initial grounding in the field as a welder/NDT Technician evolved into international responsibilities, having undertaken assignments throughout Southeast Asia and Australasia. These roles sharpened his skills in areas such as inspection, classification surveys, and team management. As Charles transitioned to positions at Vertech Group and later at Abseil Access Ltd, he was able to integrate hands-on knowledge with managerial oversight, focusing on areas like business development and operational strategy. Now, taking on the mantle of General Manager for Europe and Africa at Sonomatic Limited, Charles is eager to merge his accumulated experience with the diverse challenges and opportunities this new role presents, ensuring a harmonious and efficient operation across both regions.
Furthermore, we asked Charles a few questions about his experience and what he will bring to Sonomatic in his new role:
What led you to this career?
I grew up in a region in New Zealand where O&G is a prominent industry sector. Naturally, I gravitated towards the industry and started out in heavy fabrication. This directed me towards maritime, where I trained in various NDT methods and rope access. Experience, training, and excellent mentors led me to the commercial and strategic aspects of civil, maritime, and O&G where I found my feet in organisational leadership. I since have had an ever-growing fascination with team dynamics, organisational structure, and strategy across all aspects of business.
What does your new job role involve?
In summary, my role is to ensure our team has the tools and resources necessary to successfully and efficiently deliver our product to our existing and new clients; and that each team member experiences personal/professional growth during this process.
What are you looking forward to in this new role?
Witnessing emerging leaders experience success in their projects and across the business. I got a taste of that in my last role at Vertech Group company Abseil Access as General Manager and found it one of the most rewarding professional experiences I have had.
What is one unique quality you are bringing to the Sonomatic team?
An in-depth understanding of team dynamics.
What’s one professional achievement that you are most proud of?
While I was with Vertech Group company Abseil Access, we managed a state highway network project that was recognised and awarded by an industry association for its health and safety excellence due to its complex location, stakeholders, and critical requirement for a collaborative approach. This had a high impact on the public and had huge reputational risks to both us and the client due to its visible location.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
Keeping fit, watching sports, and travelling with my family.
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