People are at the heart of Bristan Group — and that’s why we’re introducing some of the faces behind our brand in our new ‘Meet the Team’ series.Today, we’ll be getting to know Chris Heath, our Product Manager for Kitchen Taps and Sinks, and finding out more about his career story.
Q: What does your typical workday look like as a Product Manager?
A: Well, I’m relatively new to this role, so every day is really different and I’m learning a lot.
The purpose of my job is to analyse our current product ranges and ensure they are positioned correctly, are relevant to our audience and are performing. I also analyse industry reports and customer insight to ensure we are delivering what our customers want, and that we are developing New Product Development strategies to fill any gaps. We use this insight to brief our Design Engineering team on any modifications to existing products, or new products we need.
Q: How long have you been working at Bristan Group? And how did you work your way up?
A: I’ve actually been here for almost half my life — 17 years to be precise. I joined with the intention of covering someone for two weeks, but I ended up really enjoying it and being offered a permanent job as a Quality Inspector.
I’ve always focused on the technical side of products. For example, I used to cover field engineers when they were on holiday and repair customers’ products — which was great fun. This led me to taking on the role of Assistant Product Manager, and I’ve just recently been promoted to Product Manager, so it’s been an exciting journey.
Q: What’s the best thing about your job?
A: I really enjoy helping people. It’s the technical side of the job that I’m really interested in, so I love being able to offer my tips and advice. For example, we have an On Tap Installer Facebook Group for our Bristan brand that I’m part of, and it’s great being able to use my product knowledge to support our installer customers.
Q: What is it that makes working at Bristan Group so brilliant?
A: Without a doubt, it’s the people. Every department is really close and there’s a great support network here.
Q: What are some of your favourite product innovations from Bristan Group?
A: As I specialise in kitchen taps and sinks, it has to be the Easyfit patented system for me. It really changed the game for installation and it’s what sets us apart from our competitors. It’s a longstanding fixing method that makes kitchen tap installation so quick and simple.
Q: Do you get hands-on with testing in the UKAS accredited lab?
A: All the time! The in-house testing facility is really unique to Bristan Group and it’s what makes sure our products are always of high quality. Being able to do things like flow rate testing is really useful in my role and offers me the insight I need for product innovation.
Q: What excites you about the industry at the moment? Are there any trends you predict?
A: Firstly, I think different finishes on kitchen products are becoming really popular; metallic, gun metal and brushed steel are great options for making your kitchen stand out. On top of this, kitchen taps are becoming a real focal point of the kitchen, so people are looking for new and different functionalities.
I also believe that people’s shopping habits are changing. Consumers are more confident than ever in choosing the products they want, rather than simply relying on the plumber to decide. It means that it’s really important to stay customer inspired when creating products and tapping into their needs.
Q: What advice would you give to others looking to become Product Managers?
A: I’d recommend getting as much hands-on experience with the products as you can. Understand what they do and you’ll be able to work out whether they fit what customers want.
Q: And finally, tell us a fun fact about you.
A: Outside of work, I love sport. I’m an FA qualified football coach, coaching U14S at a grassroots level. I’m a keen runner, cyclist and open water swimmer and completed a triathlon last year.
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