Introducing David Vinsen

BDH Tullford Estimator David Vinsen took time out of his busy schedule to talk us through his role and what he likes to get up to outside of work. Read on to find out more.

Can you tell us a bit about your background?

I’ve been with BDH Tullford for about 20 years, but before that I worked as a computer operator. When I first came to BDH Tullford I started working in pre-press, which involves getting the artwork in from clients, setting it all up on the systems and then getting it to the right machinery. I then moved into my estimator’s role.

What are the key aspects of your role?

Drinking tea and eating biscuits!

Joking aside, my role is primarily focused on developing relationships with our sales team and clients and ensuring accurate costing and quotes. These then go directly to the customer or to our sales managers. I also regularly liaise with production and the people on the factory floor and help out wherever and whenever necessary. I still do a little bit of pre-press work, too.

Can you walk us through a typical day?

There isn’t really a set pattern to the day. We are a small firm so we don’t just sit at our desks all day – we need to chip in and help out. For instance, this morning I was printing maps and then some folders for a school.

What are your favourite parts of the role?

I really enjoy interacting with the staff on the factory floor. I like to be hands-on and prefer to talk to people in person rather than send off emails. 

I also like the fact that we have to react to situations as they arise and help out. It’s one of the joys of working in a small firm – we are not tied down to any one thing. I don’t think I could sit at a computer all day without getting up, so I enjoy the variety!

What are the main challenges of your job?

I wouldn’t really say there were any challenges as I will give anything a go and try to find a way to get something done. But I would say that lots of work nowadays is governed by computers, which makes things much more fast-paced than they used to be.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I try to keep busy! I have been involved in the Scouts for about 50 years after joining when I was around 8 years old. I am now a Cub Scout leader (Akela).

I am also a member of the Norfolk Orienteering Club and am currently working towards my Level 2 Coaching Qualification. We as a club have actually qualified for the CompassSport Trophy finals in Scotland, which will be a challenge for us Norfolk folks as we will be up against some of the best in the country – and there are hills!

I try my hand at windsurfing too, although I am very much a fair weather sailor! But when the weather is good and the wind favourable, I like to head over to Hickling Windsurfing Club to get out on the water.

GET IN TOUCH

Got a print or point of sale project you’d like to discuss? Contact the team by emailing hello@bdhtullford.co.uk or calling 01603 620780.