Meet the owner: Paul Batey
We recently had a chat with Paul Batey, one of the co-founders and the current Managing Director of Showcase Creative. Our goal was to find out more about his background, leadership style, and what he thinks about the company, as well as some of his likes and dislikes. During our Q&A session, Paul was kind enough to share his thoughts and offer valuable insights into Showcase Creative and where it's headed. We hope you enjoy reading what he had to say!
What’s the most exciting part of your job?
I'm a complete nerd when it comes to machinery. Whenever we acquire a new machine, I experience the same excitement as I did when opening Christmas presents as a kid. It's hard to resist the temptation to disassemble our shiny new equipment to learn about its inner workings.
What does your day to day look like?
Well, it's a mix of all kinds of things. I’m involved in strategic decisions about where to take the company next and who we need to hire to make it happen. But I'm also knee-deep in the technical side of things, like training my team and setting up new equipment. It's a lot, but it keeps me on my toes!
What would you say is the best thing about running your business?
Seeing the impressive end result of a project that we've dedicated substantial effort to, and receiving positive feedback from our clients about the quality of our products and services.
What about Showcase Creative are you most proud of?
The amazing team we've built at Showcase Creative. These guys are absolute pros at what they do, and they're a huge reason why we've been so successful. Whether it's the sales team, dispatch, or anyone else, everyone's got a critical part to play in making sure our customers are thrilled with the work we do.
What is the most challenging thing about running your business?
The most difficult aspect of running the business is maximising efficiency in all areas, given the many components involved and the challenge of determining which areas require the most attention to achieve optimal results.
What’s next for Showcase Creative?
Our current focus is on enhancing our efficiency while continuing to deliver top-quality products to our clients. In the near future, we plan to expand our packaging capabilities and introduce new products.
What’s your favourite thing to do in your spare time?
My passion is travelling. I'm also really into running, mountain biking, and hiking. And if I can combine any of these activities during my travels, that's even better!
What’s the best place you’ve travelled to?
It's hard to pick just one, as I've been fortunate to travel to many incredible destinations. However, participating in the Midnight Sun Run in Tromsø, northern Norway, was a standout experience for me. Tromsø is a stunning location, surrounded by fjords and mountains with endless daylight during the summer months. Running in the middle of the night in this picturesque landscape with the sun still shining was an unforgettable experience.
Are you a coffee or tea person?
I like to mix it up throughout the day, but I would thoroughly recommend the lovely Indian Masala Chai that I have.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I am actually ranked GrandMaster level at the boardgame Risk. Yes, that’s a real thing.
What is your favourite animal?
Cats! Any kind of cat.
Do you have any pets?
I have a little black, fluffy cat called Eddie, she is the friendliest thing ever. When I pick her up she always climbs up onto my shoulder and sits there like a pirate's parrot.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Definitely a night owl.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
From an early age, I always wanted to be an inventor, which led to me studying Engineering Product Design at London South Bank University. Now, I get to invent things on a daily basis, including new products or manufacturing systems as well as modifying machines to extend their capabilities..
What three items would you take with you to a deserted island?
A left running shoe, a right running shoe and my phone (just for Strava).
Paul Batey