Michael Hilary

Leisure Accessories Specialist

With a technical background that ranges from agricultural and marine engineering to converting his own motorhome, Mike is the most recent recruit to the Southdowns’ retail team (albeit about two years ago now and after five years experience with another local dealership) and is well-equipped to advise customers on those strange woggles and widgets so vital to any successful camping trip.

Q What are your key responsibilities?
I work part-time in the Southdowns shop with Stephen Mead, who I worked for in my previous job. We work together on a Wednesday and I run the shop by myself on Thursdays and Fridays when Stephen is off.

Q Briefly describe your average working day.
A Busy.

Q What attracted you to work for Southdowns?
A I had become a bit disillusioned with my previous job. When Stephen, who was my boss there, left, the atmosphere changed. When I was approached to come to Southdowns it appealed to me because I knew and liked the team I would be working with and I knew the merchandise.

Q What is the best thing about working for the company?
A It’s good, after working for a large plc company, to be in a family business where everyone knows who you are and you’re not just another name on the payroll. I take on a lot of responsibility on the days I run the shop on my own and I like the fact that trust is being placed in me to make a success of it. It is great to feel appreciated for what you do and one of the best thing so far has been testimonials from customers, who are happy with the level of service we provide.

Q Does working with motorhomes hold an appeal for you?
A I am very technical by nature. At the moment I’m working on a Fiat Ducato at home, so yes, I am interested in motorhomes and I think that’s important in a sales job. You have to have an interest in your product.

Q If you could take a motorhome anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A I would like to go to the Norwegian fjords and the Pyrenees.

Q Finally, if you could fulfil one ambition, what would it be?
A I don’t really have an unfulfilled ambition but I’m always up for a challenge. I’ve recently ridden a motorbike to Scotland, which was fun but hard work and a few years ago I learnt to ride a horse and did dressage – much to my son’s amazement! I get a sense of achievement from doing things that are difficult but within my capabilities. Who knows what the next thing will be…

Michael was interviewed in Summer 2007

Michael can be contacted on :
Shop Direct Line number: +44 (0)2392 674822
Southdowns Switchboard Number: +44 (0)2392 674820

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