If you are in the medical devices sector and looking to expand your customer base, James Hardie is an expert in guiding you to the the right market. His team at Sanollo offers invaluable exporting advice to our many Blueprint Media contacts.
James Hardie,
Founder,
Sanollo
- In less than 45 words, give us an Elevator Pitch for your business.
Sanollo assists medical device companies expand into international markets by providing a range of services including identifying business development opportunities, selecting distributors, developing market entry strategies, managing trials, and overseeing channel partner relationships.
- What do you like the most about your job?
Our varied clientele is the most interesting part of the business. Our clients comprise companies that specialise in cutting-edge technologies including diagnostic systems, DNA sequencing equipment, surgical implants, ultraviolet disinfection equipment, and patient isolation solutions.
- What has been your best moment in business?
We successfully secured a major five-year supply agreement with Manipal Hospitals, a leading healthcare group in Asia, for a British manufacturer of infection prevention solutions.
- What lessons have you learned that you would pass on to others?
Launching a successful business venture is not a simple task and there are no easy solutions. It takes a combination of hard work and smart strategies to make it happen. Building a strong network of contacts is essential to achieving success and maintaining positive relationships is a key aspect of this.
- Tell us about your first job and any unusual jobs you’ve had in the past?
My initial professional experience was selling hand sanitisers to hospitals in southern England. At the time, the idea of sanitising hands without soap and water was considered novel and not well accepted.
- What do you hope the future hold for you and your business?
In the next 12 months, we aim to expand our clientele and services. Additionally, we are working on a plan to acquire other businesses to enhance our offerings.
- Away from work, what do you like to do?
In my free time, I enjoy playing golf, cycling and fishing. However, with a young family, these activities are currently on hold.
- What’s the last book / concert / Netflix series you most enjoyed?
A few years ago, I attended a Paolo Nutini concert in Dubai, which was an amazing experience. As for Netflix, my favourite show on the platform is “Mindhunter”.
- Where is your happy place?
After living in Dubai for a few years, we still like to visit it frequently for some winter sun. But for a happy place closer to home, I enjoy visiting Dunkeld in rural Perthshire.
- If you could invite any three people, living or dead, to have dinner with, who would you choose?
Will Ferrell, Winston Churchill and my grandmother.