Striving for Excellence: Ken Toombs' journey with A&G Stainless Steel

As a Business Development Manager (BDM) at A&G Stainless Steel in Melbourne, Ken Toombs ' career reflects a dedication to continuous improvement, building relationships, and delivering exceptional results for his clients.?

Ken has spent 26 years in the stainless-steel industry, shaping his approach to business, teamwork, and client relationships. His experience has reinforced the importance of precision, collaboration, and understanding client needs. For Ken, every project is about ensuring that A&G’s work aligns with customer expectations, delivering quality outcomes that create value for both parties. He believes the key to long-term success is not just getting the job done, but getting it done right—first time, every time.?

A Workplace That Inspires?

Ken’s decision to join A&G Stainless Steel four years ago was driven by a compelling alignment of values. “What stood out to me was the combination of a family-oriented culture with a corporate ambition,” Ken recalls. “It’s a business that’s always striving to improve, to do better, and to be better.”?

The collaborative atmosphere at A&G fosters a unique synergy among its team members. Ken highlights the company’s willingness to learn and grow as a standout feature. “We’re not afraid to make mistakes, as long as we learn from them. That approach creates an environment where you feel supported and empowered to take initiative.”?

This culture of continuous improvement is also reflected in the company’s operations and relationships with clients. Ken emphasises the importance of maintaining strong, long-term relationships while also seeking new opportunities. “It’s about balance. You can’t neglect your existing clients while chasing growth. Everyone deserves respect and attention, whether they’re a large account or a smaller one.”?

Building Relationships That Matter?

Ken’s role as a BDM sees him covering a vast territory, from South Australia, across Victoria and into New South Wales. While the travel can be demanding, he relishes the opportunity to meet clients on their own turf and understand their unique challenges. “There’s something incredibly rewarding about visiting a customer and seeing their business close-up. Customers often want an independent sounding board to discuss particular products or problems. Business must be more than just products – it must be about relationships, respect, and trust. Every client starts with 100% respect from me. You must treat everyone equally, whether they’re spending $5 or $5,000.”?

Ken’s interactions are guided by a principle that echoes his broader outlook on life: consistency and commitment to excellence. “I make sure I cross my T’s and dot my I’s. If I say I’ll do something, I do it. That reliability builds trust and keeps clients coming back.”?

Driving Success Through Passion?

Ken’s passion for his work and his dedication to improvement extend beyond his immediate responsibilities saying, “I want to be actively involved, not just with my team in Melbourne but in the company as a whole. Sharing knowledge, asking questions, and learning from each other is how we all get better.”?

As A&G Stainless Steel continues to grow, Ken’s approach remains a cornerstone of its success. By fostering a culture of respect, striving for continuous improvement, and delivering exceptional service, Ken exemplifies the values that set A&G apart in the competitive world of stainless-steel supply and fabrication.?

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