In continuation of our Meet The Team blog series, we are excited to introduce you to Craig. Craig is the newest member of the team here at The Unite Group having started working with us just a few weeks ago. Craig has settled into our team greatly and always brings a sense of positivity to the office!
We recently had a chat with him to find out a bit more about Craig and the role he will be undertaking here at The Unite Group…
Growing up, what did you want to be?
Growing up, I always wanted to be a soldier. I spent 4 years in the South African Defense Force as an operational medic. I thoroughly enjoyed serving my country, and I am very proud of this.
What is your role at The Unite Group and how did you end up where you are now?
My role here at The Unite Group is a Systems Administrator, it’s a new role but I have worked in IT for almost 30 years now.
I started in sales at an IT retailer after leaving the military. From there I quickly progressed to completing my MCSE on Windows NT, and joined Siemens as a network administrator. I then worked in Saudi Arabia for ARAMCO oil company supporting their knowledge management system. Thereafter, I worked in Botswana for their largest mining contractor as their general manager. We mined Nicol 24/7 and we also built asphalt roads for the government. Back in 2018, I emigrated from South Africa to the United Kingdom with my wife and son.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the United Kingdom, and I am overjoyed to be working with such a brilliant team here at The Unite Group. I also enjoy working with people, and I enjoy working in a team. As a team, we are always on hand to jump on and help one another when needed! I also take great pride in providing solutions to make our customers’ lives easier.
What does a typical day look like at The Unite Group?
My typical day is busy and we always start off with a laugh and a cup of coffee. My main role is to work closely with Mike and Dean on researching and planning projects for our customers. Alongside this, I offer tech support and help wherever I can. I am also working on some very interesting projects, and I want to see our customers pleased with the outstanding service we offer.
What is your most and least favourite part of the job?
My favourite part of the job has got to be working with people, supplying solutions to customers, and keeping my brain active. I can’t say I have any negatives. I always try to be positive about everything in life.
What is your greatest achievement?
My greatest achievement is stopping smoking cigarettes after 35 years, stopping alcohol, and losing 50 pounds by going back to the gym 6 days a week. I am fit now and have never felt better in my life. This has helped tremendously with focusing, and just being accepted into The Unite Group is a massive achievement.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
The greatest piece of advice I have ever been given is to “never burn your bridges”.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
In 10 years time, I see myself as a success contributing to the success of this company and my team. I want The Unite Group to be successful, and I want to be part of that.
How do you unwind outside of work?
Outside of work, I like to go fishing, you can often find me at some of our beautiful locations like Derwent Reservoir. Also, I enjoy exploring, and being new to the North East there are so many wonderful places to explore, I have not even seen a fraction of them.
If you would like to learn more about how Craig and The Unite Group can help you with your business technology needs, contact us on, 0191 466 1050.