10 In 10: Tristan Jackson

Tristan Jackson is sales manager at Slaithwaite-based sheet metal manufacturers, Salamander Fabrications. With over 20 years’ experience in the industry, Tristan looks after the sales department — setting targets and plans, in order to maximise new business development, and nurture and support existing customers.

He is the latest regional business professional in the hot seat as The Yorkshire Times gives him just 10 minutes to answer our 10 burning questions.

What does a typical working day for you involve?

I look after a small team of account managers, so my day mainly consists of ensuring we’re all working on top priority projects. I usually get involved in a couple of meetings with the production and purchasing departments to ensure all information is getting passed between groups — and fed back to our customers when required.

What makes your company special?

We have over 60 employees, but it is still very much a family environment. The communication between departments is constant and we are all driving towards the same goal. It’s this mutual understanding that provides a real team spirit and makes Salamander a very special place to work.

Do you have any business rules that you swear by?

Respect each other, speak to people how you wish to be spoken to, and tell the truth.It’s the only way to create trust within a business relationship.

Do you dress up or down for work?

This has become a hot topic recently — we dress smartly Monday to Thursday with an optional ‘dress down Friday’.

What piece of advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Get up early, make it into work on time, commit to your job, and give things a fair chance. Once you’ve done that, if you don’t like what you’re doing, change it — life’s too short!

What’s your favourite Yorkshire venue for an event or team away day?

I’ve had some great team days out at York Races. It’s a magnificent venue and a great place to enjoy a team bonding day.

How do you prefer to travel for business?

I love to travel by train where possible, but you’ll usually find me enduring traffic jams in the car.

What’s your favourite place in Yorkshire to relax?

The North Yorkshire Dales — you just can’t beat coaxing the dog into the car and enjoying a weekend away up there for plenty of fresh air and walks.

Where is your favourite place to eat in Yorkshire, and what dish do you recommend?

Where to start! There are so many excellent food spots these days. I’d recommend a Saturday morning brunch at ‘Om Is Where The Heart Is’ in Slaithwaite – the Cajun Eggs Benedict are particularly good.

What do you miss most about Yorkshire when you’re away?
The people and the countryside — it really is God’s country.