Grab yourself a cuppa and take 5 minutes to find out a bit more about the man behind ALCAN, Ali Abbas:
What made you start ALCAN?
I believed that Fire Safety services could be done much better. There was a clear gap in mid-sized companies that were big enough to facilitate a broad range of services but are still small enough to care and be personal with their customers. I believe ALCAN Fire Safety has struck this balance really well. This is clearly demonstrated by all the feedback we get from our customers, and the amount of new enquiries we get as a direct referral.
How long have you been in the fire/emergency services industry?
11 years. I was a fireman for 9 years and a Station Officer now for two years. During this time, I have gained in depth experience and understanding of life safety measures in buildings. Now the Director of ALCAN Fire Safety for 7 years, I bring to the company all that knowledge, as well as a great ability to facilitate a high level of customer service.
What drives you?
I go to work everyday with one question in mind. How am I going to delight my customers today? I find delivering an outstanding service, in a timely manner and for a reasonable price does the trick.
How do you recruit? What’s your philosophy?
I believe in the old adage ‘the customer is always right’. I recruit people who believe in the same philosophy. I recruit people who support that philosophy and work hard to ensure our clients get the best service.
Do you have a business mentor or someone who inspires/motivates you?
Evan McRae is my mentor. He has started and sold multiple successful business and I catch up with him on a regular basis to discuss any issues I have or ideas I have to develop the business.
What is your biggest passion?
Developing and maintaining positive relationships. This is from my relationship with my wife, kids, parents and siblings to my business relationships. My strongest asset is my ability to relate to people. I thrive on having harmonious relationships across all aspects of my life. Second passion is diving!!
What is your biggest fear?
Great white sharks!!!
What is your proudest moment?
When my eldest child called me dad for the first time. I felt a great deal of pride and responsibility at the same time. My other proudest moment is when I received a military Commendation for exceptional service during my second operational tour of Iraq. I was in the Australian Army for five years.
Why should someone choose to do business with ALCAN?
We have an exceptional work ethic and an in depth industry knowledge. We constantly go the extra mile for our customers and aim to delight our customers everyday.
What’s your favourite ALCAN memory?
My wife bought a Hi Vis work shirt for my eldest daughter for Father’s Day a few years back. I took her to work with me. The smile on her face that day will be engraved in my memory for the rest of my life.
Favourite food & drink…..
Scotch… Macallan 18 yr old!! Sounds cliché, but I cannot go past a good steak.
Favourite holiday destination….
Turkey. Beautiful food, rich history and natural beauty.
Well that’s a wrap from the big guy! From the team at ALCAN, thank you for reading this article and stay safe. Contact us if you’d like to find out more.
