Simon Hindle

Simon Hindle

Business Development Manager

Advanced Technology

Tell us about yourself

I’ve been working in the testing, inspection and certification (TIC) sector since completing my studies at the University of Leeds; so 18 years and counting. I spent 15 years working for another provider and have always considered TÜV SÜD to be an industry-leading brand with a global reputation for quality and service delivery. When the opportunity arose for me to join the team and support them with their ambitious plans, it was time for a change. I joined the business as a customer-facing Business Development Manager, however during this time I have been helping the business to develop its commercial tools as well as supporting the rest of the commercial team.

Why did you choose to join TÜV SÜD?

When I see the TÜV SÜD octagon, I immediately think “quality”. TÜV SÜD are one of the leading TIC companies in the world with a long history of supporting companies though the compliance process; it’s a brand that I trust.

During my interview, we discussed what the future holds for TÜV SÜD and I very much wanted to be part of it … and it’s a decision that I have not regretted. It’s a fantastic place to work with good culture and talented and nice people.

Where do you work?

I’m currently based at home, working out of my ‘home office’ (namely, the shed in my garden) … but I love getting out and spending time talking to my customers.

What are your main areas of expertise?

For the past 18 years, I have been helping my clients take their products to market through our wireless testing and certification services. I specialise in products containing radio transmitters and cover the UK, Europe and North America (USA and Canada). I work hand in hand with my colleagues in our excellent Global Market Access team for consumer electronics.

What does your role involve?

My main responsibility is enabling my customers to make informed choices on their compliance programs; it’s not my job to tell my customers what they should do but to furnish them with sufficient information to enable them to make a decision which they are comfortable with. I help manufacturers to understand their obligations, generate compliance strategies covering short-term needs but being mindful of longer-term aspirations, and discussing test approaches, equipment set up, test modes, etc.

What most interests you about your role?

I love helping a customer though this process and I take personal interest in ensuring that projects are delivered on time and in line with the commitments that I have made. I have always enjoyed customer engagement and find it very satisfying to help customers through what can be a very tricky and confusing subject.

We are working on some very interesting projects within the sales team that will enable us to better serve our customers. I can’t spill the beans just yet but it will be a game changer for us!

What exciting developments have you seen at TÜV SÜD since you started?

We are currently working on numerous initiatives across the business to streamline our delivery and enhance the customer experience. Since I joined the company, TÜV SÜD have brought Octagon Hub online. This facility is leading the way in testing automation and better supports our customers to get their products to market in a timely manner.

What future trends do you see developing in your area of work?

You name it, someone is thinking of putting a radio into it!!

What is your biggest challenge?

I think the biggest challenge that I face is that our customers often engage too late in the process. For our customers to get though the compliance phase as smoothly as possible, they need to be designing with compliance in mind, thinking about test modes that will be required and interfaces that will enable their equipment to be exercised and monitored during the testing. If I can crack this, then I’ll be a happy man!

What do you see as the top perk of working for TÜV SÜD?

The top perk of working for TÜV SÜD for me is the flexibility that they allow such as working from home.

How have TÜV SÜD supported you?

It’s fair to say that I’ve experienced some issues in my personal life since joining TÜV SÜD. The teams here have been very sensitive to my situation and really supported me. I don’t think they know how important that is to me.

Training is on tap through TÜV SÜD Academy and also internally there are a plethora of training possibilities that are there to be had too.

Describe your fellow workers in five words

I can honestly say that I love working with this team as they’re so dedicated, hardworking and customer-focussed. They are amongst the best people that I have had the pleasure of knowing.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking of applying for a role similar to yours?

It’s quite simple: TÜV SÜD is a great employer, and you should apply for the role!!

Find out more about our wireless testing, safety and certification services and product testing services which include electrical safety testing.

Related Training Courses:

EMC Directive Training Course