Name: Ash Burtoft
Job title: Specification Manager
Tell us a bit about yourself
I live in Rugeley with my girlfriend Hannah. We have spent the last 18 months gutting a house during lockdown which has been fun…and equally stressful.
I spend quite a bit of my time in the gym or in Cannock Chase on my mountain bike. I find it’s a good way to shut off after a day at work.
Describe your job to a five-year-old
I talk about toilets to people looking to buy them
What do you like most about your job?
I like building relationships with people. There is nothing better than bringing a difficult customer round to respect and value your opinion. Knowing you’ve become someone’s go-to contact is a good feeling.
How did you get here?
I’ve worked for Ideal Standard for just over five years now. I started working in the Armitage pre-sales office in February 2017, before becoming a team leader on the Residential then the Non-Residential side. This led me later on that year to the Specification Manager role on the Non-Res team.
What motivates you?
I’m very self-critical. Anyone that knows me well knows I’m ultra-competitive.
If you could swap jobs with anyone, who would it be?
Lewis Hamilton. Who wouldn’t love that job!?
Your favourite song lyric or line from a film?
“Are you not entertained?” from Gladiator. Has to be!
Your favourite app?
Would have to be Amazon. Useless items turn up at the house routinely around 10am.
Biggest face palm moment at work?
There have been plenty! A few years ago I turned up to meet a customer. Walked into reception to be reminded that we were meeting on site….25 miles away. Cue embarrassing apologetic phone call.