August/September 2024
housewareslive.net
PEOPLE A Briefer Encounter
Stephen Fennell, Key Account Manager, at Pyrex shares his Housewares journey and his career highlights.
What is your current role and how long have you been doing it? My role is Key Account Manager at Pyrex, I’ve had the pleasure of working here for 18 years.
What does your role entail? My role involves managing relationships with small to medium retailers, foodservice providers, and wholesalers. My focus is on understanding the unique needs of these accounts, providing exceptional service, and driving mutual growth. Ensuring that both Pyrex and our customers thrive.
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hand. Visiting factories and meeting the people behind the brands has given me a deeper appreciation and respect for the craftsmanship and effort involved in creating quality cookware.
What do you see as the main issues for retailers and the industry at the moment? The retail landscape has the years, with rising
overhead costs posing a major challenge for retailers. The high cost of rent and the changing dynamics of the high street, including the loss of established
names. Additionally, consumer buying habits have shifted dramatically, necessitating adaptability and innovation from retailers.
What one piece of advice would you give yourself at the start of your career? If I could give one piece of advice to my younger self, it would be to manage your expectations and set achievable targets. This approach ensures steady progress and helps in navigating the complexities of the industry.
How did you get started in the industry? My journey in the industry began in 1997 when I joined a German company, Fissler as a Territory Manager. This role introduced me to the world of high-end stainless-steel cookware. I actually got the role by taking my CV to Spring Fair and handing it out to all the businesses I was interested in. Initially, Fissler didn’t have a vacancy but said they would be in touch, a few months later something opened up in the team
What roles were you doing before and how did they prepare you for this one? Before joining Pyrex, I worked as an Area Sales Manager at Le Creuset. This role offered me opportunities to manage a diverse range of accounts and gain invaluable experience with customers. This background laid a strong foundation for my current responsibilities, equipping me with the skills to handle varied client needs and enhance business relationships.
What would you like to achieve in your current role? What drives me in this role is the desire to provide the best possible service. My aim is to grow the business alongside my customers, fostering continual development for both Pyrex and the clients I manage.
What has been the highlight of your career so far? The most rewarding aspect of my career has been witnessing the
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What keeps you busy at the weekends? When I’m not working, I enjoy spending my weekends in the countryside, photography, leading a walking group and playing badminton regularly.
If you’re at the bar, what are you drinking? A nice pint of Moretti.
What is your favourite book? Book: Currently “The Salt Path” by Raynor Winn
If you could have dinner with would it be and why? The person I would have wanted to meet would been Her Majesty Queen and service to the UK and Commonwealth over so many years, was an example to us all.
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