Quality Wool’s young core adopting key values

Carol Stubbs, Texworks, and veteran Quality Wool representative Andrew Keach (left) with young staff members Jeremy Dyson and James Kellett during the second session of the company's youth curriculum at its head office in Adelaide. |: Quality Wool's Hayden Hillman, Dale Bowers and Suzanne Carlon (right) with Carol Stubbs, Texworks.

What does it mean to be an independent, family and Australian-owned company and what does this look like when marketing a bale of wool for a grower?

These were among the key discussion points as Quality Wool’s youth pathway participants descended upon the company’s headquarters in Adelaide for the second session of their curriculum recently.

In collaboration with experienced apparel industry consultant Carol Stubbs, Texworks, and 23‑year Quality Wool veteran Andrew Keach, the group discussed the company’s core values and principles that had helped it grow from 6500 bales in 1991 into Australia’s biggest independent wool broker.

Particular focus was given to the personalised service and ‘family values’ Quality Wool has prided itself on as a point of difference from corporate and foreign‑owned competitors.

And if the largely staff‑driven discussion is any indicator, Quality Wool’s young core has already adopted these in the early stages of their career with the company.

A large portion of the interactive session was also devoted to developing a greater understanding of Quality Wool’s range of different selling options, with the group discussing forward contracts and the different methods of spreading risk for growers.

“It’s nice to know we’re supported by the company, and that we are seen as a long term investment in its future.”
Quality Wool’s Hayden Hillman, Dale Bowers and Suzanne Carlon (right) with Carol Stubbs, Texworks

Wool representative Suzanne Carlon, based in Orange, NSW, said the session allowed the company’s young staff, all at the same stage of their wool industry careers, to act as a sounding board for each other and share ideas and experiences.

“It was great to see where we are all at, and to discuss little wins we’ve had as well as challenges we’re all facing,” Suzanne said.

“It’s nice to know we’re supported by the company, and that we are seen as a long term investment in its future.”

Quality Wool Managing Director Mark Dyson said the company had grown from its foundation on a specific set of ideals over 28 years, which were now being passed onto the next generation.

“The great benefit of our youth program is that the participants will be exposed to these fundamental values and principles early on,’’ Mark said.

“It will not only help their own careers moving forward, but also our focus in continuing to provide the highest level of service and support to growers.’’

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