A SPECIAL PIPING MATERIALS INTERVIEW | JAC FROM MANCHESTER

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At Special Piping Materials (SPM), our success is built on the dedication and expertise of our global teams. Each office plays a vital role in supporting clients across the energy, petrochemical, and industrial sectors, ensuring that every order is managed efficiently and delivered to the highest standard.

Our Manchester office is a key hub for SPM’s operations in Europe, bringing together a wealth of knowledge, precision, and teamwork. One of the driving forces behind that success is Jac, who works within the expediting team and helps keep projects on track from start to finish.

“Jac is a brilliant member of the Manchester team. Her attention to detail, great attitude, and commitment to seeing every job through make her a huge asset to both the team and our customers.”
– Dawn Sheppard, General Manager, SPM Manchester

1. How long have you worked with SPM?

I started working for SPM in February 2019.

2. What role are you currently in?

I’m currently part of the expediting team.

3. Can you give us an overview of your career so far?

After finishing my time working with the police, I joined SPM as an Office Administrator. Over time, I gained experience in sales and quality, but I soon discovered that my real strength and passion lay in expediting, ensuring that orders move smoothly through every stage of the process.

4. What’s your favourite (and least favourite) day-to-day task?

My favourite task is seeing a job through from start to finish; there’s real satisfaction in watching everything come together successfully. My least favourite task would have to be filing!

5. What made you want to work for SPM?

I heard about SPM through friends and thought it sounded like a really friendly and supportive company to work for — and I wasn’t wrong! The team here is fantastic.

6. What is your current focus in your role?

Right now, I’m focusing more on exports and imports procedures, especially as we’ve been working more with China, which involves more complex export requirements. It’s been a great learning experience.

7. What are the current priorities for the Manchester SPM team?

Our main priorities are maintaining excellent communication with suppliers and customers, meeting delivery schedules, and ensuring every order is handled with accuracy and care. The team works closely together to make sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.

8. What do you think the future holds for the piping world?

I believe the future is heading towards nuclear energy. As demand grows for cleaner and more reliable power sources, the nuclear sector is set to play a much bigger role,  and that means exciting opportunities for the piping industry.

9. What does a typical day in the office look like for you?

I always start the day with a coffee while checking my emails and prioritising any tasks that need immediate attention. Then I review my calendar, chase up ongoing orders, and manage the day-to-day jobs that come in. I also check in regularly with Rehan in our Dubai office, as I handle their expediting work as well, which keeps things interesting and varied!

10. What keeps you motivated at work each day?

The people. We have such a great team here in Manchester — it really is a pleasure to come to work every day.

11. How do you relax after a hard day’s work in the office?

A large glass of wine and a good box set are my perfect way to unwind after a busy day!

12. If you could choose another SPM office around the world to work in, which would it be and why?

I’d probably choose Houston, as I’ve always wanted to go to America — and it’s a lot warmer than Manchester!