As NZ Specification Manager for Fosroc ANZ, Mike James brings decades of concrete construction industry experience to his role. A natural problem-solver, he loves helping project specifiers to successfully solve diverse construction challenges.
Having spent his entire career around concrete and cement, Mike brings unrivalled product and application knowledge to every relationship.
“I have always worked around concrete,” Mike explains. “I started out in drafting, then worked for a render cladding manufacturer, an aggregates producer and then as a supervisor in a pre-cast yard. At Fosroc, I am immersed in the product range and bring expert technical expertise to every specification.”
Supporting specifiers, understanding applicators
Mike works collaboratively with specifiers, engineers, project managers and builders, complementing their project acumen to ensure lasting outcomes.
“I am very solution focused. As well as knowing all about individual products, I understand the methodology around how they will be applied and the factors that make application successful.”
“I am always conscious of creating solutions that meet the performance and durability requirements of the project, but that also take into account how the concrete applicator will work with the product on site.”
A genuine focus on service
“It takes collaboration to realise excellent project outcomes,” says Mike, who sees his role through a relationship lens.
“My job is about so much more than product alone. I value the whole process and the relationships that make construction projects possible. That includes building trust with specifiers, site managers and applicators. As well as recommending products, it’s also about follow up, quality assurance, warranties and simply being available to answer critical questions.”
“We focus on service, service, service. No job is too large or too small – we’ll always take the time to look closely at a design, review product selections and make sure everything is in place for an enduring result.”
High performance products
Mike says the impressive performance of Fosroc's products give the brand an edge in the market.
“If I had to nominate a favourite Fosroc product, it would be Cemtop HD30 for its durability and strength,” Mike says.
“This product is incredibly hard-wearing and very cost-effective. It’s so strong it can be driven on by forklifts but so thin and easy to apply.”
Ideal for warehouses and commercial car parks, Cemtop HD30 provides a durable, waterproof surface as well as excellent wear- and chemical-resistance.
Leveraging the power and recognition of a global brand
Mike says Fosroc is known and trusted by New Zealand’s big construction industry names and specified on major projects such as Auckland’s Central Interceptor. As he explains, Fosroc is a global brand, recognised around the world for its innovative, high performing products.
“Although the general public might not know a lot about Fosroc, anyone in construction instantly recognises the brand. I have construction professionals from overseas who get in touch once they move to New Zealand because they’ve used Fosroc products and want the same outstanding performance locally.”
“And of course, once customers realise that Fosroc ANZ is part of DuluxGroup, their confidence goes through the roof,” he adds.
Mike loves working in a role where every day is different.
“The phone rings and you don’t know whether it will be about a major infrastructure project specification or a small commercial project. I enjoy that diversity.”
“I also value Fosroc’s emphasis on staff professional development. We do a lot of product training, and the internal culture is very focused on knowledge-sharing and helping one another deliver outstanding outcomes for clients.”
“The focus on sustainability is another factor. We’re involved with the New Zealand Green Building Council and participate in lots of conferences and events focused on environmental sustainability in construction. It’s exciting to be part of this important industry shift.”
If you need customer service support or advice about the right Fosroc ANZ products for your next project, please complete the form at the bottom of this page or call us on 0800 657 156 (NZ) OR 1800 812 864 (AU).