Who got that job?

Craig Manson

* National business manager imaging solutions group, Canon New Zealand

Pocket CV

Name: Craig Manson
1999-2005: General manager, Schwarzkopf Professional
1998-1999: National sales manager, Freshfood Services
1994-1998: National sales manager, Roche Consumer Health
1990-1994: Sales representative, Roche Consumer Health 

Q: What were you doing before accepting your new position?

A: I was with Schwarzkopf for six years, the last three as general manager. Strategically, both industries are experiencing significant change in a relatively flat market. The focus at Canon is very much on a European leadership style that empowers our people to take responsibility for the business and encourages decision making at the closest possible point with the client.

Q: Why did you apply for this job?

A: The challenge and the opportunity to grow the business even further. The culture and leadership at Canon is quite unique in the New Zealand market and I wanted to be part of that team. Plus I can develop my career in New Zealand.

Q: What are the major challenges ahead of you?

A: Moving the business strategically to a solutions-based business where the product is part of the mix, not the total deal.

Canon is moving from a supplier/transactional model to a partner/strategic model that will deliver more value to our clients, we are the market drivers in this sense.

Q: What qualities do you bring to the job?

A: Drive, strategy, leadership. A desire to drive the changes in our market for the benefit of our partners, our people and our company. And still finding time to have fun.

Q: What do you expect to be the most enjoyable parts of the job?

A: Seeing the change develop and the benefits being realised by all stakeholders

Q: How will you judge success in your new job?

A: Our client's feedback - we are planning a reasonably unique forum to gauge their feedback, as well as feedback from the team and, of course, market share.

Q: What are your hobbies?

A: Travel and enjoying good food and wine with my partner and friends. Spending time with my sons. Playing the odd game of tennis and the even odder game of golf. We are about to start renovating our house.