Simon Maher, Sales Manager based in Palmerston North.
Simon joined the CCEP family 8 years ago – initially joining as a Regional Key Account Manager, then moving into a Senior Territory Sales role before he jumped into his current Sales Manager role, which he has had for 4 years. Throughout Simon’s career he’s held various sales and marketing roles – including a stint of almost 7 years in London. In addition to his Sales Manager responsibilities Simon is also one of our Mental Health First-Aiders.
Describe your role in five words or less…
Rewarding, challenging, driving capability & results
How long have you worked at CCEP NZ?
Nearly 8 years
What do you love most about the role?
The people. Working with such a diverse and knowledgeable group of colleagues on the daily makes the role so enjoyable and rewarding.
What are the challenges?
Being pulled in multiple directions at once every day. Although this is fast paced and exciting, it can be challenging juggling everything at the same time.
Do you have a favourite #onlyatCCEP moment?
Being awarded the Supreme Award at the Queenstown Sales Conference. It was an unexpected and hugely humbling experience.
What's your favourite thing about your career?
The fact that Coca Cola has allowed me to build one. When I came into the business almost 8 years ago, I could have only dreamed of working for such an amazing company! Coca Cola has afforded me the opportunity to experience multiple roles with the On The Go function, build and develop a career that challenges, excites and drives me to be better and succeed every day.
What advice would you give your 16-year-old self?
It is what it is, don’t sweat the small stuff.
If you had a warning label, what would yours say?
He may look grumpy, but he’s just quiet.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
The excitement of not knowing what the day will bring…. as well as a mix of an offensively loud and frequent alarm, an even louder cat and knowing that I’ll get to see my 8-month-old, Poppy.
What's your beverage of choice?
Kiwi Blue Sparkling Water
What is something that others might find surprising about you?
I have an unhealthy obsession with collecting vinyl records.
What inspired you to become a wellbeing first-aider?
I wanted to become a Wellbeing First Aider as I have experienced and now manage my own mental health challenges. Although these have been difficult, challenging and at times hard to talk about, I want to remove the stigma associated with mental health. I want to open the conversations and make sure people know its ok, to not be ok.
What can someone expect when they first contact you?
I understand how mental health can impact many aspects of someone’s work and personal life. With me you will get an empathetic and confidential ear, someone who knows how much it can help just talking.