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When Joe Pearson joined Christeyns UK as an apprentice in 2017 he could not have known that a few years later he would have the opportunity to broaden his experience overseas.
Earlier this year Pearson took on a short-term assignment in New South Wales, Australia, working with one of Christeyns latest joint ventures, Christeyns True Blue who are based in Caringbah.
In July 2024 Christeyns acquired a majority stake in True Blue Chemicals, a leading producer of cleaning and hygiene solutions for healthcare, hospitality, education, and industry and now also focusing on industrial laundries and food processing companies.
Pearson joined Christeyns on a foundation apprenticeship, completing a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Performing Manufacturing Operations and Level 2 Diploma in Engineering and Technology. He already had work experience in the UK and abroad and set out as a very capable and well-rounded communicator and team player.
His initial interest was in the selling side of the business but he also excelled in the technical aspects of account management moving from Trainee Technical Service Representative to Technical Service Representative. In January 2023 an Account Manager role opened up and Pearson was appointed Technical Service Account Manager, North of England.
Pearson had shown that he has the aptitude and knowledge to more than cope and his excellent people skills made him a natural in a customer facing environment and comfortable in building client relations.
Joe Pearson at work in Australia
“Christeyns don’t stand still,” stated Pearson. “They are constantly looking ahead, developing innovative products and processes that save water and energy and diversifying into different cleaning sectors and new markets. The same applies to their people, there is always opportunity to move forward.”
With an overseas placement as a long-term goal, the Australian acquisition really grabbed Pearson’s attention, seeing it as a possible opportunity to further develop his skills and knowledge whilst learning about the challenges of the business in a totally different country.
Apprentices joining Christeyns are provided with support from the outset, this includes a one-to-one mentor and guidance on the best-fit role and career path. Pearson turned to his original mentor, Operations Director Justin Kerslake who opened up discussions with Christeyns True Blue where they required some extra support with Proof-of-Concept work.
Pearson is well into his two-month assignment in which he services dosing equipment, chemical control systems and washer extractors, checking for water quality and monitoring water, energy and chemical usage. He carries out quality audits and hygiene tests.
When asked about any differences in the commercial laundry sector in Australia, Pearson commented: “The big difference is that due to the climate there is a greater amount of mildew and mould staining. This, along with suntan lotion residue, results in the linen having to go through a much heavier wash process than standard. The laundry business in Australia is very much in its infancy so there is a lot of scope compared to the UK and Europe. It is really exciting to be a part of something that one day will be super successful!”
Alongside work, Pearson has enjoyed experiencing life in Australia, visiting Sydney and the Gold Coast and the many outdoor trails and national parks. Not to mention the warmer weather!
“It has been an amazing experience, and I am very fortunate to work for a company that has allowed me this opportunity. For anyone starting out on an apprenticeship, it is just the start of your journey. You may not fully know where you’re headed but try your best and ask a lot of questions. It’ll all work out in the end, just enjoy it!”
Christeyns runs apprenticeships across all departments of its business in the UK. Providing young people with the right skills and opportunities is vital for the future prosperity of both Christeyns and the industry, and the company views its apprenticeship scheme as a crucial part of the recruitment strategy. Christeyns’ goal is to offer permanent roles to all apprentices who go through their scheme.
