Employee Stories: Andy Carruthers, Regional Manager Leave a comment
Welcome to Our Employee Stories Series!
This series is our way of celebrating our amazing team, sharing their unique journeys, and offering a glimpse into the culture that drives everything we do.
This week, we’re featuring Andy, our Regional Manager for Scotland and Ireland, who joined Hydraquip in January 2023 and brings 14 years of hydraulics industry experience. Andy shared insights into his background, regional goals, leadership approach, and what he enjoys outside of work.
Keep reading to find out what Andy shared with us.
Q: What is your vision for the business in Scotland and Northern Ireland?
“For Scotland and Northern Ireland, my vision is for us to be the first choice and most trusted hydraulics provider. We want to build on the growth we’ve achieved over the past few years and further strengthen that position.”
Q: How do you stay motivated or inspired in your role?
“I stay motivated by supporting my team and witnessing their commitment each day. My role is to ensure they have everything they need to succeed, and their dedication drives me to remain positive and focused.”
Q: How would you describe your leadership style?
“My leadership style is supportive and positive. I focus on ensuring everyone in the team has the skills and resources needed to succeed. I’m here to support them so they can do their best work.”
Q: How did you get started in the hydraulics industry?
“I began my career working with a fluid power and transfer specialist based in Aberdeen, focused on supporting the Offshore Oil & Gas market. This gave me a great deal of experience around high-pressure hydraulic systems and reinforced the importance of health and safety protocols. Working closely with blue-chip clients, I developed a strong understanding of customer service, particularly the need for quick response times and building lasting client relationships.”
Q: Can you share a recent success story from your team that you’re particularly proud of?
“A success story I would love to highlight isn’t one thing; it’s the way that every member of the Scotland team has become a well-oiled, extremely high-performing unit, with everyone playing their part in keeping Scotland’s machines moving. Whether onboarding customers, handling urgent jobs, delivering services, or providing follow-up, the team communicates brilliantly and relies on each other to get the job done every day.”
Q: What qualities do you value most in your team members?
“Working in our industry requires a particular type of person, someone who is hardworking, transparent, honest and respectful at their core. This line of work is not for the faint-hearted. Our industry is very down to earth, so we focus on building long-lasting relationships founded on trust and respect. These values are essential and non-negotiable for every team member as they underpin why we do what we do.”
Q: What does a typical weekend look like for you?
“Having two children; Maisie and Munro, keep my wife Nicola and I very busy at the weekends, but if it’s nice weather we can be found out on walks with the kids, spending time with family and friends or I’ll just be choosing my next DIY job on the list that somehow found its way in front of me.”
Q: Is there a favourite quote or motto that speaks to you?
“Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional. I run, cycle, hike and used to take part in ultra marathons, which is putting yourself through pain for 5/6 hours at a time, but it’s through the misery you choose to put yourself through, builds resilience and makes having a bad day that little bit easier to deal with. Mental strength is very important to me.
Q: What’s your ideal way to unwind after a busy day/week?
“It depends on the day…if it’s one type of day, I’ll get out on the bike, go for a run or walk and enjoy the outdoors, but if it’s the other type of day, I’ll have a double Laphroig or a Guinness, please, barman!”
Q: What’s something people are often surprised to learn about you?
“Something people are often too surprised to hear about me was my life before working in the hydraulics industry. I had a few businesses putting events together, as well as running an outdoor clothing company. Some great experiences from both, and there are so many things I learned from being self-employed, having to spin so many plates and building a brand that I still consider and use today.”
While he’s already making strides, this is only the beginning. We’re excited to see the positive impact he’ll continue to have across Scotland and Ireland.
Stay tuned for more stories as we continue to highlight the people driving our success.
