What made you choose Arbtech?
Honestly, the fact that most of the people I have spoken to have worked here for several years.
When speaking to other companies, retention seems to be a problem – not a natural cycle but a regular issue; the fact that staff have stayed at Arbtech for several years speaks very loudly to me.
Coming from pretty much the biggest employer in London, where you are a number (literally), it didn’t matter to the organisation if you left or stayed. It matters here though.
This was probably the biggest attractant for me, along with what seems like a great team, a promise of learning and personal development, and the chat I had with the ‘big fella’ cemented it!
What do you love most about the company?
I don’t know yet, as I’ve only recently started, but everything I’ve read online is about being open, honest, approachable, and straight-talking – all attributes I am attracted to, even if sometimes the straight-talking gives you an unexpected wake-up.
What do you do when you are not at Arbtech?
Read – everything from Bushcraft and remote Alaskan/Canadian living and homesteading to Bill Bryson books and loads more I have no room to mention.
I also love camping, from as basic as it can be to full-on camper and awning-type camping. As long as I’m in or near woodlands or forests, I’m happy alone or with like-minded people.
I love the gym and fighting my warm snuggled-up bedhead to get out and get there. I don’t focus on anything too much. I’ve competed in boxing, powerlifting, trained in two different martial arts, and recently hung up my rugby boots. It’s just about keeping the wheels moving and retaining strength levels as my time ticks away.
I own a motorbike – a GSA 1200 – which I have used as a multi-tool, from camping around mainland Europe to sunny Sunday blasts. I follow the world and British superbike championships and have been fortunate enough to see the Moto GP in Qatar and Italy.
I like to eat well and try to take time to switch off, both physically and mentally. In terms of food, I love eating, and I enjoy trying to find something different to cook in the woods other than burgers!
What is your biggest tip to achieve the most in life?
You have a finite amount of time at the bank of life – spend it wisely.
I used to be an impulse buyer, made very easy by mobile phones. I’ve learnt to spend my money very carefully and second-guess myself before hitting the buy button. I’d rather spend money (which is ultimately time) on a trip that creates a memory that I will have for the rest of my life. I like to trade money for time, not time for money.
Read, learn, and do not ever be afraid to fail.
What is the best social you’ve been on at Arbtech?
I haven’t experienced my first Arbtech social yet, but I’ve heard good things from my colleagues and I’m looking forward to receiving an invite to my first!
Where do you want to travel to next?
Costa Rica.
I’m heading there in June, then hopefully a short break this winter to New York City and then next year off to Vancouver Island to continue my exploration of British Columbia and Alberta – places that have stolen a part of me; natural, beautiful, and wonderful nature at its finest for me.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
Better than I am now, mentally stronger than I’ve ever been, and still learning new skills, including things about myself and the world we live in.
Physically strong and fit, not just for my age but for me.
If Arbtech is half as good as it seems after talking to Rob, I’ll hopefully be on track to get greybeard status by then.
What is a goal you have for the future, in or out of work?
Basically, retire no later than 60 and see parts of the world that deserve several months at a time.
That said, I want to remain mindful that there is a whole lot of living to do before then, and at work, I want to be competent and skilled at whatever the task is, helping others wherever I can.
I have a dream of building a small shelter in a woodland, and to build (or buy) a camper/overland rig to enable me to drive across the world.
Rob joined Arbtech in May 2023.
