Bahadar Nagra – Catalogue and Data Manager. 

Q: Can you share your career journey and what led you to your current role?
A: I started as a tool setter on a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine, then moved into CNC programming. From there, I managed a packing team before moving into purchasing for a few years. I then became a catalogue lead, took a break, and entered the fire safety and door hardware industry. Eventually, I joined the automotive sector, bringing extra knowledge from different industries.

Q: What inspired your interest in the automotive industry, and how did you become a part of our team?
A: My father worked for a large automotive company, so it was embedded in me. I tested myself in another industry but always knew automotive was my home. Joining Comline felt like bringing my experience to help shape the next generation.

Q: Can you describe a time when you implemented a process improvement that significantly boosted productivity?
A: I introduced Webshop to Comline customers which allowed us to set up customer accounts faster and increase our electronic interface, giving customers live information so they could place orders more quickly.

Q: How do you motivate your team members in the Data Team?
A: By making time for them and supporting with problem solving.

Q: What is your greatest strength in your role, and how do you leverage it?
A: Closing off jobs quickly — box it up, move on to the next. It frees up time instead of juggling multiple tasks at once.

Q: How do you stay updated with the latest trends and innovations in the automotive industry?
A: Checking technical publications and word of mouth.

Q: If you could trade jobs with any team member for a day, who would it be and why?
A: I would trade jobs with Chris Pegg, VP of Business Line because he gets to interact with lots of people both externally and internally.

Q: What core values guide you in your professional life, and how do they manifest in your daily work?
A: If you can do tomorrow’s task today, do it. It’s one less thing to remember.

Q: What is the most memorable advice you’ve ever received in your career, and how has it influenced you?
A: “Effort is worth more than ability when hiring someone.” I look for willingness and the ability to learn.

Q: Can you share a time when you felt particularly proud to be part of our company?
A: During a conference, an external company pointed me out as a shining example of how to handle the challenge of changing the way we delivered information.

Q: If you brought a child to a take-your-children-to-work day, what would you show them about your job? What would you tell them about what you do?
A: I’d explain that my job is like an art — you’re either born with the ability to see patterns or you learn the hard way.

Q: Where were you born, and how has it influenced your perspective on life?
A: Royal Leamington Spa, near Coventry. It’s a very reserved town, which has given me a trusting outlook on life.

Q: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
A: I enjoy making things and growing plants in my allotment.

Q: What was the best day of your life and why?
A: Meeting my wife. Because of her, I have two great “workmates” — my sons — who will try anything with me.

Q: What superpower would you like to have and why?
A: Time travel — just to know who made things and to solve some mysteries.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about our team members.