Interview


10 minutes with... Surej Solanki


New product development and research manager at Scolmore.


Tea or coff ee? Coff ee.


Glass half full or glass half empty? Glass half full.


Working from home or working from the offi ce?


Working from the offi ce with my colleagues. When we start bouncing ideas around, it’s like a spark ignites, and suddenly we’re in this zone where innovative concepts just fl ow eff ortlessly.


How did you get started in this industry? I studied 3D design at college then proceeded to do an Industrial Product Design Masters at University, which led me into the manufacturing industry where I have gained a passion for lighting. There’s just something about the interplay of light and space that captivates me, driving my passion to create innovative lighting solutions.


What were some key Ovia sustainability achievements in 2023?


We’re on an exciting journey aiming to achieve TM66 LIA verifi cation for our premium Inceptor lighting range. Simultaneously, we’re championing sustainable practices by embracing circular economy principles in our designs. Witnessing our commitment to eco-consciousness, we are moving towards minimising the use of plastic packaging and making the shift to brown recycled materials for individual packaging, inner linings, and outer cartons. It’s a step towards a greener future.


What has been the highlight of your career?


I’ve been entrusted with an incredible opportunity


to spearhead the integration of sustainability practices into product development at Ovia, and it’s been an immense accomplishment for me personally and professionally.


What are your key aims for Ovia’s sustainability agenda moving forward? We plan to complete our TM66 verifi cations for all Inceptor products and moving forward we will continue to apply these practices in all of our designs.


How is the drive for sustainability aff ecting electrical design? How is it aff ecting Ovia products?


Our focus isn’t just on delivering a product—it’s about providing installers and end-users with thoughtfully designed solutions that champion sustainability at every step. That’s precisely why we undergo the rigorous process of verifying all our TM66 rated products with the LIA. This commitment ensures that our users can trust a respected third party’s validation, showcasing our dedication to maintaining the highest standards


What are the main barriers to sustainable design currently and how are you working to overcome them? The main barriers in sustainable design are educating our audience on how the actions we have taken are more economically circular/ sustainable and why it should be taken into strong consideration.


Who has infl uenced you the most professionally?


The guidance and support I’ve received from my manager and the entire team at Scolmore Group have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. Over the past three years, they’ve not only encouraged me to seize opportunities for career advancement but also emphasised the importance of self-development.


What do you consider your greatest achievement?


Completing my Masters in Industrial Product Design would be my greatest achievement academically. However, professionally I would say It’s being


20 | electrical wholesalerJanuary 2024


“We’re championing sustainable practices by embracing circular economy principles in our designs.”


accepted as a member of the Lighting Industry Association’s (The LIA) Tech Forum Young Industry Panel and being given the opportunity to speak at their autumn 2023 event.


What’s your favourite fi lm and/or book? My favourite book is ‘The Painted Man’ by Peter V Brett. I don’t think I could pick between Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Alien or Toy Story.


Football, golf, gardening, pets, children… What keeps you busy at the weekends?


This can be anything from exploring a new city, going on a trek, reading a book/ binge watching a series and even 3D printing and creating my own bespoke products at home.


And fi nally… What’s your go-to karaoke song?


This is a hard choice but I’d probably say Bohemian Rhapsody.


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