Chris Astley: Equipment & Systems Specialist

 

Professional Background and Attraction to Summit Systems: 

Chris brings a wealth of experience to Summit Systems, with a distinguished 30-year career in the process industry. His journey began at AGA Gas, where he specialised in selling and renting cryogenic systems tailored to the food industry. This early experience involved managing a diverse range of equipment including tunnels, spiral freezers, and cabinets. Over the years, Chris expanded his expertise to encompass powder processing, covering everything from individual pieces of equipment to comprehensive systems. His deep understanding of these various technologies and industries is a significant asset. 

What attracted Chris to Summit Systems is the company's reputation for innovation and excellence in material handling solutions. The opportunity to contribute to Summit’s dynamic growth, particularly in the new material handling division, aligns well with his background and career aspirations. Chris’s extensive industry experience and his track record of building and maintaining strong customer relationships made Summit Systems an attractive place for him to leverage his skills and make a meaningful impact. 

Key Strengths and Application in the New Role: 

Chris’s key strengths lie in his ability to develop and nurture relationships with clients across all levels. His proficiency in securing service and maintenance agreements, along with managing large, high-value orders, highlights his strong negotiation and sales skills. These abilities are complemented by his management skills and team-oriented approach, which have fostered long-term relationships with a broad customer base. 

In his new role at Summit Systems, Chris plans to apply these strengths by focusing on building robust customer relationships within the new material handling division. His experience in handling significant contracts and maintaining high-value agreements will be instrumental in driving growth and securing major deals. Chris’s strategic approach to customer engagement and his knack for understanding client needs will help in establishing Summit Systems as a leader in the material handling sector. 

Excitement about Summit Dynamic Solutions and Contribution: 

What excites Chris about Summit Dynamic Solutions is the clear vision and ambitious objectives set forth by Summit. The Dynamic Solutions Division’s goal to expand and innovate within the material handling sector presents a thrilling challenge for Chris. His experience across various markets—such as Food, Chemical, Plastics, Rubber Recycling, and Aggregate—aligns perfectly with the division’s objectives. 

Chris sees himself contributing significantly by leveraging his extensive industry knowledge and network. His background in these diverse sectors will help in tailoring solutions that meet the specific needs of different industries. Additionally, his ability to identify and tap into new market opportunities will be crucial in driving the division’s growth and success. 

Personal Interests and Hobbies: 

Outside of work, Chris is an avid swimmer and cycling enthusiast. These activities not only keep him physically fit but also provide a valuable mental break from the demands of his professional life. In addition to his personal hobbies, Chris actively engages with several professional bodies such as Chemical North West, Food Networks, Sharpa, and the Association of Bakers. These organisations offer valuable networking opportunities and industry insights. 

His extensive network, including contacts within the engineering community and former colleagues, helps him stay informed about industry trends and developments across the UK and Ireland. This ongoing engagement with various professional groups not only supports his career but also enriches his personal interests, as he remains connected with the latest advancements and industry best practices.