Joe Burns attributes his success as the managing director of a firm that installs commercial security systems to the personable way staff deal with customers when their primary need is peace of mind
Joe Burns is managing director of Huddersfield-based Apex Fire and Safety Systems, which specialises in commercial and industrial fire and security systems. What do you always have with you?
Three things: work boots, phone and tools. Having all of these with me means I can react quickly when needed, whilst keeping an eye on the business and providing support to both staff and clients throughout.
Do you dress-up or dress-down for business?
My work look would be to dress down, but still be smart. You can usually find me in my black Apex t-shirt, boots and black jeans whether I’m on site or visiting clients.
Which person has inspired you most in your business life and in what way?
It has to be my old boss. I previously worked for Preston Electrical and my employer Dave Preston inspired me with his determination. I admire the fact that he developed his business from a one-man operation to having around 40 electricians on his books. I worked with him for many years, from school work experience all the way to running big contracts.
What’s your proudest achievement in business?
Biting the bullet and setting up. I’ve also been really proud of the some of contracts we’ve landed.
We have carried out the install of fire alarm systems at large chemical factories throughout the UK, as well as tower blocks and flats. I envisaged picking up such large contracts a few years further down the line, therefore I am proud of the pace at which the business has developed.
What’s your company’s greatest asset? The Apex staff are by far the company’s greatest asset. They are all knowledgeable and reliable, with great customer service skills which have helped our business grow and become recommended.
Do you use social media and if so with how much success?
I use LinkedIn a lot.
This platform has generated some of our biggest maintenance contracts. Social media has been a good tool, we have gained approximately 60% of our work via online channels.
If you hadn’t gone down your chosen career path, what would you be doing?
I would have always gone into business. Maybe by opening up a small restaurant or building my skillset as an architect – both are quite different, admittedly, but they are professions that have always interested me.
Give us one tip for a successful business? Be reliable in all aspects of your job. I never try to be someone I’m not and always want to
At what time of the day are you most creative or inspired?
First thing in a morning. From 7am I send off all my paperwork and by 11.30am I try and step away from my computer to go on-site or visit clients.
I’m really productive on an evening too so from 8.30pm-10.30pm I check emails and make sure I have a plan for the next day.
How do you relax away from work?
I spend time with family by going on long walks and dining out with my partner and our young son. I also I go to Northern Fitness Gym in Linthwaite and play for Berry Brow Football Club.
When do you take your coffee break? I always have my morning coffee but timing-wise this can vary as I am constantly on the move.
Who would you most like to have a coffee with?
I am a huge fan of Alex Turner from the Arctic Monkeys, so he would have to be my first choice for a coffee and a chat.