From measuring glass cloth in the warehouse to overseeing the entire facility as Head of Operations, Martin’s journey at Wessex Resins & Adhesives has taken in just about every stage of how our products get made. We sat down to talk about first impressions, the value of getting the details right, and what keeps him here after all these years.
How did you first come across Wessex Resins, and what made you want to join?
I found the role through a friend who had applied for a position at the Marine Boatbuilders Association in Woolston, Southampton. Wessex Resins & Adhesives was a job placement within the association.What were your first impressions when you walked through the door?
It felt professional yet welcoming. Because it’s a smaller company (roughly 15 employees), you immediately notice a friendly, open and collaborative atmosphere where different departments actually talk to one each other.What does a typical day look like for you and is there even such a thing?
There isn’t really a “typical” day. One morning you might be orchestrating the next upgrade of machinery for a department, and the next you’re hands on supporting the production of biobased resins for eco-friendly projects, it’s a real team environment.What part of your job genuinely excites you, even now?
Seeing our products used in high-stakes environments such as record-breaking, world-winning racing yachts is a huge buzz.How has your role evolved since you first started?
My journey with the company began in the warehouse, where I first learned the fundamentals of our materials by measuring and preparing glass cloth for resale. I quickly moved into decanting and then onto the production floor, where I spent several years mastering the manufacturing process. This hands-on experience served as the foundation for my leadership journey; I progressed from Production Manager to Factory Manager, and I now serve as the Head of Operations, overseeing the entire facility with a deep-rooted understanding of every stage of our workflow. I am also a mental health first aider and a part of the company’s Senior Leadership Team.How would you describe the team to someone thinking about joining?
It’s a tight-knit community where management is approachable and genuinely interested in how things are going and we are always working in synergy and to the same goals.What’s the thing about working here that you just can’t get anywhere else?
The combination of a SME company feel with global reach. We’re based in Romsey, but our products are used globally.How does the company support you, not just professionally, but as a person?
Wessex Resins & Adhesives supports people as individuals through its private healthcare and its understanding of its employees’ specific needs. Being a mental health first aider myself shows that the company prioritises long-term well-being over short-term output.What’s a moment or project you’re genuinely proud of?
A defining milestone for me was overseeing the facility’s physical expansion. Managing the construction of our new production extension was a turning point, as it not only modernised our operations but provided the vital capacity needed to scale our manufacturing and meet growing global demand.What would you tell your first-day self, knowing what you know now?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.” We as a company are experts in our roles, and eager to help, so you’ll pick up the technical details much faster if you engage early. As standard practice we offer hands on training in our workshops for new individuals so there is always opportunity to ask questions.Why do you stay, what keeps you here?
What keeps me here is the stability and the immense pride that comes from manufacturing products that set the industry benchmark. I thoroughly enjoy my role, and I’m consistently motivated to deliver my best supported, of course, by everyone around me.