Interview with Mr Thomas Hedges, Business Manager at Comline

Title: Business Manager

Age: 28

When did you join Comline?

I joined Comline back in 2007 as a Sales Coordinator.

How did your career progress within the company?

I was working closely with our braking specialist Dr. Keith Ellis on the Allied Nippon commercial vehicle range.  As time went on I started to develop a technical knowledge on PC, LCV & HCV braking, which proved very useful when dealing with customers. I feel I have very good interpersonal skills, which has been a key to my development at Comline. One of many success stories for us here at Comline is the growth of our business with the UK’s largest LCV fleet. The account was one of my first and at the time we only received a quarter of the rental companies braking requirement. Over the past 4 years I have worked closely with all parties from Workshop Technicians to company Directors, to gain what is now 100% of their braking business.

Since starting at Comline I have added many other strings to my bow including managing Export sales in countries such as Spain, France, Denmark, Poland, Hungary, Germany as well as executing import shipments, clearance documentation, direct business with our brake pad factory (Allied Nippon Limited), marketing of our brands and product development including cataloguing.

Comline is a great place to work with some highly skilled people onboard, I can see myself here for the long haul.

What is your specialist area within Comline?

I would say my specialist area would be managing companies with multiple locations around their respective country. This could be within the UK or throughout Europe. I am also called upon for anything commercial vehicle which I am very comfortable with.

Did you have any previous experience within the aftermarket industry?

I had no previous experience in the aftermarket or automotive divisions. I actually came into the industry from managing various aspects within the retail sector.

If you could change anything about the aftermarket, what it would be?

The perception of aftermarket parts from the original manufacturers. I feel the perception often given to the aftermarket is that quality is sacrificed for the price. I can safely say that Comline do not abide to this theory and only offer products of a premium quality.

 If you could own any car, what it would be?

Shelby Mustang GT500 1967; such a beautiful car

When you are not working what do you like to do...

I enjoy spending time with my Family and friends. I am a big music fan so regularly visit gigs and festivals, also what could be called recreational DJing. I release my geeky side in Comics and playing Xbox.