From Cycling to Bidding - The Journey of Rob Dustan, Bid Expert

Introduction

Meet Rob Dustan, a man who has turned his passion for winning into a thriving career in bid management. With a journey that spans from the early days of selling and coding to becoming a highly respected bid expert, Rob has honed his craft with meticulous planning, a tenacious spirit, and a love for the challenge. In this interview, we delve into Rob’s professional journey, personal interests, and the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way.

Discovering a Path Less Travelled

If you had asked a 20-year-old Rob Dustan what he’d be doing today, he might have pictured himself as a professional cyclist or even a gardener managing a large estate. But life had other plans. “Cycling and gardening are my passions,” Rob shares, “but I found that bid management also offered freedom and creativity.” The same excitement he finds on a long bike ride or in cultivating a garden is mirrored in the bids he manages—each one a new challenge, requiring creative solutions and a team effort to succeed.

Balancing Passion and Profession

When he’s not crafting winning bids, Rob finds solace in cycling and gardening. “Cycling helps me unwind, whether through the solitude of a solo ride or the camaraderie of a group ride,” he explains. In the garden, Rob creates a space where nature thrives, cultivating wild areas to encourage biodiversity. But he’s quick to note, “I do draw the line at slugs and snails—there are just too many!”

The Thrill of the Chase

Rob’s love for the chase is evident in how he manages pressure and deadlines in his work. “I love selling, and bids are my way of selling things to people,” he says. For Rob, the key to reducing stress lies in meticulous planning and clear communication. “I like to set out a clear plan and ensure everyone knows what they’re doing. Honesty and the ability to call for help are crucial.”

Leadership with a Coaching Mindset

In leading a bid team, Rob sees himself as a coach. “I don’t shout; I set out a clear plan and communicate expectations,” he shares. But he’s also not afraid to be more direct when needed, ensuring that every team member is pulling their weight.

A Journey Through Different Roles

Rob’s career has taken many turns—from cold calling in sales to transitioning into IT and eventually finding his niche in bid management. “I fell into bids after working as a transition manager for won bids, and I loved the freedom and challenge,” he recalls. It’s a path that has allowed him to work closely with the C-suite and be part of major company successes.

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Advice for the Next Generation

When asked what advice he would give to someone starting out, Rob is clear: “Get into business development and sales. It’s an unforgiving environment, but if you’re good, you’ll excel.” His approach to business is grounded in understanding every aspect of a company, much like how each position in a rugby team has its role to play.

Proudest Achievements

Rob’s proudest achievements span both his personal and professional life. From completing gruelling long-distance cycling challenges to winning a ￡750m Waste Management contract against the odds, Rob has proven that determination and skill can turn long shots into wins. “It’s all about knowing your craft, planning meticulously, surrounding yourself with the best people, and being incredibly tenacious,” he says.

Lessons Learned

Reflecting on his journey, Rob shares some hard-earned wisdom: “Always have an exit plan and manage your cash flow carefully.” He also wishes he had found more balance between work and life in his younger years but acknowledges that his early experiences shaped who he is today.

Looking Ahead

At 60, Rob is still passionate about his work and has no plans to retire just yet. “For as long as I can keep bringing value to the work I do for clients, I would like to keep doing it,” he says. The road ahead is still open, and Rob is ready to continue making a difference in the world of bidding.

A Mantra for Life and Work

Rob sums up his approach to life and work with a simple yet powerful mantra: “Do what you say, when you say you will do it, make sure it is the best you can do, and it does the job.”

Conclusion

Rob Dustan’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, planning, and perseverance. Whether on a bike, in the garden, or leading a bid team, Rob brings his all to everything he does. His story is an inspiration to anyone looking to find success on their own terms.