Field Service Stories

In this episode of Field Service Stories, Charles Scully, Managing Director of Cornwall Waste Care, shares how he became the managing director of a multi-million-pound waste collection business. In this fascinating interview, Charles shares how he built his foundations as a young man and reinvented himself at 49 to build a business from the ground up.   Discover: Business Lessons on market researchCreating recurring revenue streamsMaintaining professional standardsBuilding trust through transparencyFocusing on customer retention   This episode offers practical advice and inspiration for business owners, field service professionals, and those simply curious about how resilient leadership shapes thriving businesses.   Key topics include: Early lessons about discipline, cleanliness, and systematic operationsHow corporate sales experience shape a professional approachThe importance of trust and service quality in building customer loyaltyHow finding an underserved market niche led to rapid growthWhy age is just a number when starting a business

In this episode of Field Service Stories, Gary Specter, CEO of Simpro Group, shares his journey from scaling startups to leading a $1.7 billion global success story. With decades of leadership experience at SAP, NetSuite, IBM, and Adobe, Gary offers insights into the transformative power of resilience and innovation in field service management. Discover: The key traits of resilient leaders and how they drive changeInsights into Simpro’s foundation story and its synergy with BigChangeThe role of technology in shaping the future of field service managementHow AI and automation are revolutionising field service operationsStrategies for customer-centric growth in challenging economic climatesThe impact of cultural differences on global business strategiesLessons from private equity investments in service companies Gary also discusses the recent acquisition of BigChange by Simpro Group, outlining the opportunities this creates for innovation and growth across Simpro, BigChange, Airflow, and ClockShark. This episode offers practical advice and inspiration for business owners, field service professionals, and those simply curious about how resilient leadership shapes thriving businesses. Key topics include: Resilience in leadershipDriving innovation in field serviceBuilding customer-centric businessesIntegrating AI and automation into operationsNavigating cultural dynamics in global teams Links: Company Websites BigChange WebsiteSimpro WebsiteClockShark WebsiteAroFlow Website Simpro Group Acquires BigChangeSimpro Leadership Team 2024 Field Service PredictionsSubscribe On: Apple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicMore...

In this episode of Field Service Stories, we sit down with Dominic Ponniah, co-founder and CEO of Cleanology, as he shares his remarkable journey from rejection on Dragon’s Den to building a £25 million turnover cleaning empire. Dominic's resilience, innovation, and commitment to ethical business practices have helped him transform Cleanology into a sustainable industry leader. Tune in to discover: How Dominic overcame early challenges and turned rejection into successThe growth of Cleanology across 25 UK citiesWhy paying a Living Wage is both ethical and a smart business moveThe role of sustainability and innovation, including robotics and big data, in reshaping the cleaning industryThe impact of COVID-19 on the sector and how Cleanology came out strongerThoughts on UK employment law changes and their potential impact on businessThe importance of diversity in leadership and its benefits to Cleanology Dominic also discusses Cleanology’s support for The Hygiene Bank charity and invites you to get involved in their upcoming fundraising efforts. Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, sustainable business practices, or the future of the cleaning industry, this episode provides a wealth of insights and inspiration.

In this episode of Field Service Stories, we explore the world of private equity investment with Jamie Roberts, Chief Investment Officer at YFM Equity Partners. If you're a field service business owner or CEO aiming for rapid growth, this conversation is essential listening. Jamie shares expert insights into: The key traits that make a management team attractive to investorsHow to position your business for future funding opportunitiesThe concept of patient capital and its importance for long-term growthReal success stories from the field service sectorThe impact of the current economic landscape on investment decisionsEssential questions to ask potential private equity investors From YFM's "Entrepreneur's Economy" report, Jamie offers a fresh perspective on how SMEs can thrive and secure investment in today’s market. Whether you’ve built a local business empire or want to expand nationwide, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help fuel your growth and attract the right investors.

In this episode of Field Service Stories, we sit down with Peter Holmwood, Managing Director of SES Home Services, to explore the ambitious goal of installing 600,000 heat pumps annually by 2028 and the monumental challenges that lie ahead for the utilities and plumbing and heating sectors. Peter offers key insights on: The technological advancements revolutionising field operationsInnovative strategies to tackle the industry-wide skills shortageHow to build customer trust when introducing new climate technologiesThe role of real-time stock management in enhancing efficiency and first-time fix rates Beyond the technical aspects, we also discuss the human side of this green transformation. Peter reveals how SES Home Services empowers its workforce and improves customer experiences while navigating the path to sustainability. We also tackle important questions, including: Is the 600,000 heat pump target achievable, or just a pipe dream?How is field service adapting to meet these growing demands?What impact is cutting-edge technology having on this journey? Whether you're in the utilities sector, involved in field service operations, or simply interested in the future of sustainable energy solutions, this episode offers a compelling look at the challenges and opportunities on the road to net zero.

In this episode of Field Service Stories, Dr. Lee Williams, an expert change management consultant, provides a deep dive into the intricacies of digital transformation in the field service industry. Drawing from his extensive experience, including his work with Garic, Lee offers practical strategies to help businesses streamline operations and successfully implement new technologies. Listen in to discover: How to streamline field service operations with digital toolsEffective methods for overcoming resistance to changeThe power of big data in improving decision-makingThe balance between technology and human elements in field service Lee also shares his tried-and-tested strategies for optimising field service management, covering everything from scheduling and real-time tracking to improving reporting and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re transitioning from paper-based processes or aiming to improve efficiency, this episode is packed with insights for businesses of any size. Key topics include: Digital transformation in field serviceChange management techniquesProcess mapping for successOvercoming implementation hurdlesMaximising ROI from field service software

In this episode of Field Service Stories, we follow Matthew Powell's remarkable transformation from plumber to tech innovator. Alongside his brother, Matthew is revolutionising the UK home services industry with WarmZilla, a company that’s redefining how boilers are bought and installed. With a lean team of just 10, WarmZilla has grown into a multi-million-pound business by offering fast, smart service powered by innovative field service management software. Matthew shares insights into: Building a distinctive and memorable brandHow to connect with Gen Z in an old-school industryThe power of technology in improving efficiencyHow field service management software is key to scaling a businessWhat customers expect in 2024 and beyondWhat’s next for the home services sector Whether you're in plumbing, heating, or any field service business, this episode is packed with insights on building a modern brand, leveraging technology, and meeting ever-changing customer expectations.