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MEET THE PEOPLE WHO POWER US: PAUL WOODALL

 

In this blog, we speak to Paul Woodall about his role as Special Projects Sales Manager at Makita, including his work with the emergency services such as the disaster response organisation SARAID.

 

What does day-to-day life look like as a Special Projects Sales Manager?

It’s a very varied role – there’s never a dull day. You can go from one week working on spreadsheets and forms to the next working with fire and rescue services, or visiting car factories. This suits me completely, as I love being challenged and working in fast paced environments.

 

You’ve had multiple roles at Makita. How has your career evolved during your time at the company?

During my 24 years at Makita, I have been TDS (similar to current construction team), worked in the outdoor division (OPE) and now work within the Special Projects team (with six members currently in the team). Having joined Makita with minimal construction experience, I am now completely versed in the ins and outs of power tools and outdoor power equipment. Over the years, I’ve seen Makita go from strength to strength with its expansion into new sectors – such as the telecoms and utilities industries – and I am excited to continue on this journey with the company.

 

What drew you to Makita?

The desire to try something different and go down a new route. I have an engineering background, so my mind is always trying to puzzle out how things work; and to delve deeply into the complex and meaty world of the production industry has been really insightful. Makita provides great training – you’re never afraid to ask questions about how things operate. And, of course, it was a dream to work for such a powerhouse brand.

 

What has it been like managing projects for emergency services such as SARAID?

With SARAID in particular, it is vital that the right tools are recommended for the right tasks. I love being able to put my expertise in Makita’s products to such rewarding use and recommend specialised equipment for many niche and often complicated situations. Some of our disc cutters and saws will work for a particular area of wreckage, others won’t. Runtimes, efficiency and other key specs are paramount for this line of work we cater to. We also offer the training needed for these tools.

It’s been really enlightening getting to speak professionally with different stakeholders, such as the SARAID rescue team members. You get to learn about and help combat their specific challenges and needs and the experiences I’ve had have been professional and personal gold dust.

Our clients care far more about functionality than price, but sometimes, what they think they want isn’t always what they need, which is where our team steps in! It’s just great to see Makita’s equipment being used in so many different industries. We’ve even had forensic lights being powered by our batteries, because of their unique features and monitoring capabilities.

 

What’s your favourite Makita tool and why?

The DRT-50 brushless router trimmer. I’ve been working on a personal project – building a campervan and this nifty tool has done so much for me and my vehicle! With its soft start feature, brushless motor (for runtime longevity) complementary attachments and durable aluminium base and housing, this router trimmer is an ideal, efficient tool for completing a range of tasks. And it’s cordless, reducing hazards and giving great flexibility for work locations.

 

Any others?

It would have to be the DTM52– Makita’s oscillating multi tool. It is incredibly practical and versatile for such a compact machine. It’s also robust and tactile, with the rubber coating providing improved grip and low vibration, therefore making the usage of this powerful tool safer.

 

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?

I love tinkering with and modifying elements of my campervan, such as adding in solar panels and cabinets. There’s always more that can be done to enhance the space! I’m also enthused by motorcycles, having recently restored a 1970s Honda scooter – another fun project. I’m naturally inquisitive and deeply enjoy learning about how and why things work – so I know I’m definitely in the right profession!