Employee Spotlight: Kevin Burgess at Speedy Fixings
Here at B.I.G Speedy Fixings, we attribute much of our success and strength to our dedicated team. In this spotlight, we focus on Kevin Burgess, our founder and managing director of the company since 1999. In this blog, we take a look into Kevin’s commitment to Speedy Fixings, showcasing his significant achievements and the impact he has had. Additionally, we will offer an insight into his interests and activities beyond his professional life, providing a more rounded view of his character.
The Growth of Speedy Fixings Under Kevin’s Leadership
Kevin Burgess, our Managing Director and Founder, established Speedy Fixings in 1999, laying the foundation for a company that would grow to become a leader in its field. In 2000, a significant milestone was achieved when B.I.G (Burgess Industrial Group) purchased its first unit in Colchester, marking the beginning of our journey in supplying Fixings, bracketry and builders’ metalwork to the construction industry. This early success led to the acquisition of two more units within the next five years, expanding our capacity and reach.
The year 2011 marked another leap forward with the launch of the Speedy Fixings e-commerce website, enhancing our ability to serve a wider clientele efficiently. In 2013, we took a strategic step to further expand our presence in the industry by moving into a new unit across town and opening a trade counter, broadening our offerings to include fixings and metalwork.
Fast forward to 2024, and Speedy Fixings continues to evolve under Kevin. We have implemented new bespoke sales and accounts IT systems, streamlining our operations and reinforcing our commitment to providing high-quality services. Kevin’s journey from founding Speedy Fixings to steering it through these significant milestones highlights his dedication and the company’s continuous growth.
Memorable Achievements: Custom Solutions and Company Growth
One of Kevin’s standout projects dates back to B.I.G’s early days. A London-based businessman was building a holiday home in The Caribbean, set in a lagoon on stilts, approached us for a unique solution. Kevin and his team collaborated closely with the customer to design custom-made post shoes suitable for the lagoon environment. Successfully designing and shipping these to the Caribbean was a significant achievement for the company.
However, Kevin considers his greatest accomplishment to be the growth of the company itself. Starting from a small team of two to three people, he has successfully expanded to what it is today. This growth, under Kevin’s guidance, stands as a testament to his dedication and the hard work of the entire team at Speedy Fixings.
Kevin Outside of Work: Interests and Hobbies
Away from his professional life, Kevin enjoys a variety of interests. He is an avid supporter of Ipswich Town Football Club and holds a season ticket, reflecting his deep-rooted enthusiasm for the sport. Additionally, Kevin dedicates time to maintaining his fitness, which he balances with a passion for reading. He also appreciates the arts, enjoying visits to the theatre whenever the opportunity arises.
Kevin’s Career Advice: Understanding and Patience with Customers
Kevin advises those starting in this industry to prioritise patience and attentiveness when speaking with customers. He emphasises how important it is to listen carefully, as customers may not always use the correct terminology. For instance, what one person considers a bolt might differ from another’s perspective. Kevin suggests asking plenty of questions to ensure clear understanding, highlighting the value of effective communication in successfully meeting customer needs.
3 Words to Describe Speedy Fixings
Kevin Burgess describes Speedy Fixings with three keywords: Professionalism, Uniqueness, and Helpfulness, each reflecting the company’s fundamental values.
“Professionalism” – As Kevin explains, we take our business seriously, with a strong commitment to professionalism. This means ensuring that every customer is well taken care of, with each interaction handled seriously with care and attention to detail.
“Uniqueness”- Kevin highlights our uniqueness in the industry. Speedy Fixings offers a wide range of products, many of which are exclusive and cannot be found elsewhere. As Kevin mentions, “We recently had a customer who drove all the way up from Brighton”, specifically for our unique products. This is not an uncommon occurrence, as our product range sets us apart.
“Helpfulness” – Lastly, helpfulness is a priority of our customer service approach. We encourage customers to reach out with any queries they may have. Whether it’s questions about stock, sizes, or anything else, our team is always ready to assist. As Kevin says, “We are happy to talk to them”.
For Kevin, these three attributes – professionalism, uniqueness, and helpfulness – are not just words but principles that guide Speedy Fixings in delivering exceptional service and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Kevin is a key figure at Speedy Fixings, pivotal in shaping the company’s trajectory. His expertise in the fixings industry and commitment to customer service have greatly contributed to our success. Outside his professional role, he is more than just our Managing Director; he is a crucial part of why Speedy Fixings stands where it is today. His leadership and dedication are integral to the company’s identity and growth.