Engineering for Business Challenges

Posted By:
South Eastern Regional College (SERC)

4th Nov 2021

A local businessman who found his return to study rewarding is encouraging others to be prepared to deal with the challenges of the business environment.

Bangor man, Damien Kane (52), Commercial Director at Kane Engineering, a manufacturer of electrical switchgear based in Newtownards said, “The CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice is the first academic course I have completed since graduating, many years ago, with a BA (Hons) European Business Studies from Ulster University.

He added, “The course was delivered remotely, and although not the usual college experience, for me, it was rewarding, nonetheless. Completing it gave me the opportunity to step back from day-to-day business issues which can often get in the way of thinking strategically about what is needed to grow the business.”

“Kane Engineering is a company with a pan-European supply chain, so Brexit disruption, on top of Covid, has meant changing the way we do things. We operate in a competitive market sector, so, more than ever, product and service innovation are key to maintaining our competitive advantage.”

 

“My primary role is business development and sales, essentially seeking out and engaging with new opportunities to grow our customer base throughout the UK and Ireland. It’s always exciting to work in a sector where the product technology is changing rapidly, so my advice for anyone interested in working in the sector is to get yourself trained and equipped to deal with the challenges.”

 

Speaking about returning to study at SERC, Damien said, “The CMI course was excellent. It was professionally delivered by the tutors and guest speakers at the College, and I would recommend it for anyone seeking to increase their professional business skills.”