Leeds Glass celebrates Steve’s 35 years
This month marks a significant milestone for Leeds Glass as our Managing Director, Steve Green, celebrates 35 years with the company. Steve’s journey from his first day on the shop floor to his current role as Managing Director reflects the values that have made Leeds Glass a trusted name in West Yorkshire: dedication, adaptability and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
As we celebrate Steve’s career milestone, we’re taking a moment to share more about his story and reflect on how both he and Leeds Glass have grown over the years.
How it all began
Steve’s journey with Leeds Glass began with an unexpected encounter in the mid-1980s. At the time, he was working at Yorkshire Imperial Plastics and playing semi-professional rugby at Wakefield Trinity. During a night out in Wakefield, Steve met Joanne, who would later become his wife. As it happened, Joanne’s parents, Christine and Ted, owned Leeds Glass. Ted saw potential in Steve and offered him a position with the company.
This marked the beginning of a 35-year journey that would see Steve progress through various roles, gaining thorough knowledge of every aspect of the business. His experience on the shop floor in particular has helped him thoroughly understand the practical aspects of glazing and installation that are crucial to customer satisfaction.
A day in the life of Leeds Glass’s Managing Director
Steve’s typical day showcases the hands-on approach that’s a hallmark of our service. He usually arrives at the factory at 7:30am, beginning with a review of the day’s priorities. A walk through the factory means Steve can connect regularly with employees across all departments.
“I will say hello to all employees, walking down the factory to speak to shopfloor workers, glaziers and installers,” Steve says. “I’ll assist with queries about the day’s production and installation if needed.”
Steve’s day continues with a range of tasks, from organising labour and assisting with pricing estimates to speaking directly with customers, suppliers and the sales team. This thorough approach ensures every aspect of the business runs smoothly and we always maintain the high standards our customers have come to expect.
Adapting to industry changes
Over the past 35 years, Steve has seen and adapted to big changes in the glazing industry. From new materials to changing customer preferences, staying ahead of the curve has always been crucial for Leeds Glass.
“The industry has evolved. The biggest changes are the introduction of solid core timber composite doors, the variety of coloured profiles available for PVCu windows, the different frame designs available and the enhancements in energy saving glass,” Steve notes. “There is a resurgent trend for aluminium products, which now include bi-folding doors, larger than average sliding patio doors, flat glass roof lights and warm tiled roofs that are all geared towards modern day living. We adapt to these changes through our committed, vetted supply line.”
Always focussed on customer satisfaction
For Steve, the most rewarding aspect of his role goes beyond just business success. “The most rewarding part for me is being successful,” he says, “by this I mean having a good working relationship with a reliable workforce, our suppliers, but most of all having happy customers who want to deal with us time and time again.”
This emphasis on customer satisfaction has been a driving force behind Leeds Glass’s longevity. It’s reflected in every aspect of our operations, from the quality of our products to the expertise of our installation teams.
Challenges and opportunities
As Steve looks ahead, he sees both challenges and opportunities for the industry. “The biggest challenge faced within our industry is the next generation of a skilled workforce,” he explains. “As an industry, we have reintroduced apprenticeships and skilled pathways through the Glass and Glazing Federation and FENSA. This will hopefully attract and maintain the next and future generations.”
While there are challenges, Steve is optimistic about the future of Leeds Glass. “My hopes are that the company will continue and prosper for many years with the third generation of family members, which includes my two sons James and Antony and my daughter Faye,” he says.
What sets Leeds Glass apart
Throughout his 35-year journey, Steve has been instrumental in shaping Leeds Glass into the company it is today. When asked what sets Leeds Glass apart, Steve highlights the company’s versatility:
“One thing is our range of products and versatility we offer within our industry,” he explains. “We are a company that offers products and services within both the glazing sector and the replacement window industry.”
This expertise means we can meet a wide range of customer needs, from simple repairs to complex installations. But it’s not just about the variety of services offered – for Steve, customer satisfaction is always key.
“I am proud of all the good installations we carry out, our repeat orders from long standing customers and reviews from new and existing customers,” Steve says.
A commitment to quality and service
Steve’s 35-year journey with Leeds Glass is an incredible personal milestone, but also a testament to the values that we live by as a business. His progression mirrors the growth and adaptability of Leeds Glass in an industry that’s always changing.
Whether you’re a regular customer or considering us for the first time, you can count on Leeds Glass for quality products, expert installation and friendly, reliable service. Here’s to many more years of serving Leeds and West Yorkshire!
Contact Leeds Glass today for a free quote or more information on our services. With our decades of experience, we can work together to improve your home’s comfort, efficiency and style with quality glass and glazing.