Finding the Sweet Spot
Kal Tire’s Darrin Rousselle thrives on helping clients find the perfect solution to their current and future needs.
Q: What is your position and what are your responsibilities?
As a regional sales manager responsible for the infrastructure industry in Ontario at Kal Tire, I lead a team of great sales representatives who manage the day-to-day account activities of our customers. I also manage strategic national accounts for customers operating in the infrastructure industry.
Q: What is it about your job that other people wish they got to do?
I’ve been fortunate to meet so many different people across multiple industries. In my position, every day brings something new. Instead of sitting in the office all day, I build relationships with customers and team members, both in day-to-day operations and at industry social events. And, as I like to tell people, I spend my days playing with lifesize Tonka toys – something others only wish they could do!
Q: What do you find most challenging in your work?
People are always the most challenging – and rewarding – aspect of my work. Specifically, the challenge is daily problem solving for the benefit of the customer. It’s about finding the sweet spot between a customer’s immediate needs and long-term goals. We provide value to the customer by helping them understand that a short-term investment will save them money over time. You align customer happiness with company objectives in a way that works for everyone.
Q: Describe your typical day on the job and how the work you do contributes to your company.
There is no typical day as a sales manager. Some days are spent in company meetings discussing anything from safety to sales, budgets to strategy, or performance to quality. Other days are spent visiting customers It’s a position where you need to think on your feet to navigate everything that happens in a day. A sales manager’s contribution is realized through supporting the team in building strong customer relationships. With a solid understanding of all aspects of a customer’s business, we generate revenue and help the customer achieve their goals. It’s a win-win.
Q: How did you get interested in this field of work?
Many years ago, I was working at a bank. After eight years, it was time for a change.
Q: What sort of education do you have that is relevant to your job?
I studied finance and marketing at Sheridan College, and I’ve continued to take courses and expand my education over the years.
Q: Where do you see the industry going in the next few years?
I don’t have a crystal ball, but one thing is for sure: both the tire and aggregate industries will be very different in the coming years.
Q: What advice would you give to others looking for a career in the aggregate industry?
Many customers, colleagues and friends have had long and successful careers in the industry. It’s a career that pays well, and one that excels at training new talent to succeed anywhere in the quarry or pit. Like the tire industry, those who enter the field are happy and stay on until retirement. Both the aggregate and tire industries will always be in demand and are a great place to build a career.