Field Service Stories

In this episode of Field Service Stories, Gary Specter, CEO of Simpro Group, shares his journey from scaling startups to leading a $1.7 billion global success story. With decades of leadership experience at SAP, NetSuite, IBM, and Adobe, Gary offers insights into the transformative power of resilience and innovation in field service management.
Discover:
The key traits of resilient leaders and how they drive change
Insights into Simpro’s foundation story and its synergy with BigChange
The role of technology in shaping the future of field service management
How AI and automation are revolutionising field service operations
Strategies for customer-centric growth in challenging economic climates
The impact of cultural differences on global business strategies
Lessons from private equity investments in service companies
Gary also discusses the recent acquisition of BigChange by Simpro Group, outlining the opportunities this creates for innovation and growth across Simpro, BigChange, Airflow, and ClockShark.
This episode offers practical advice and inspiration for business owners, field service professionals, and those simply curious about how resilient leadership shapes thriving businesses.
Key topics include:
Resilience in leadership
Driving innovation in field service
Building customer-centric businesses
Integrating AI and automation into operations
Navigating cultural dynamics in global teams
Links:
Company Websites
BigChange Website
Simpro Website
ClockShark Website
AroFlow Website
Simpro Group Acquires BigChange
Simpro Leadership Team 2024 Field Service Predictions
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In this episode of Field Service Stories, we sit down with Dominic Ponniah, co-founder and CEO of Cleanology, as he shares his remarkable journey from rejection on Dragon’s Den to building a £25 million turnover cleaning empire. Dominic's resilience, innovation, and commitment to ethical business practices have helped him transform Cleanology into a sustainable industry leader.
Tune in to discover:
How Dominic overcame early challenges and turned rejection into success
The growth of Cleanology across 25 UK cities
Why paying a Living Wage is both ethical and a smart business move
The role of sustainability and innovation, including robotics and big data, in reshaping the cleaning industry
The impact of COVID-19 on the sector and how Cleanology came out stronger
Thoughts on UK employment law changes and their potential impact on business
The importance of diversity in leadership and its benefits to Cleanology
Dominic also discusses Cleanology’s support for The Hygiene Bank charity and invites you to get involved in their upcoming fundraising efforts.
Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, sustainable business practices, or the future of the cleaning industry, this episode provides a wealth of insights and inspiration.

In this episode of Field Service Stories, we explore the world of private equity investment with Jamie Roberts, Chief Investment Officer at YFM Equity Partners. If you're a field service business owner or CEO aiming for rapid growth, this conversation is essential listening.
Jamie shares expert insights into:
The key traits that make a management team attractive to investors
How to position your business for future funding opportunities
The concept of patient capital and its importance for long-term growth
Real success stories from the field service sector
The impact of the current economic landscape on investment decisions
Essential questions to ask potential private equity investors
From YFM's "Entrepreneur's Economy" report, Jamie offers a fresh perspective on how SMEs can thrive and secure investment in today’s market.
Whether you’ve built a local business empire or want to expand nationwide, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help fuel your growth and attract the right investors.

In this episode of Field Service Stories, we sit down with Peter Holmwood, Managing Director of SES Home Services, to explore the ambitious goal of installing 600,000 heat pumps annually by 2028 and the monumental challenges that lie ahead for the utilities and plumbing and heating sectors.
Peter offers key insights on:
The technological advancements revolutionising field operations
Innovative strategies to tackle the industry-wide skills shortage
How to build customer trust when introducing new climate technologies
The role of real-time stock management in enhancing efficiency and first-time fix rates
Beyond the technical aspects, we also discuss the human side of this green transformation. Peter reveals how SES Home Services empowers its workforce and improves customer experiences while navigating the path to sustainability.
We also tackle important questions, including:
Is the 600,000 heat pump target achievable, or just a pipe dream?
How is field service adapting to meet these growing demands?
What impact is cutting-edge technology having on this journey?
Whether you're in the utilities sector, involved in field service operations, or simply interested in the future of sustainable energy solutions, this episode offers a compelling look at the challenges and opportunities on the road to net zero.

In this episode of Field Service Stories, Dr. Lee Williams, an expert change management consultant, provides a deep dive into the intricacies of digital transformation in the field service industry. Drawing from his extensive experience, including his work with Garic, Lee offers practical strategies to help businesses streamline operations and successfully implement new technologies.
Listen in to discover:
How to streamline field service operations with digital tools
Effective methods for overcoming resistance to change
The power of big data in improving decision-making
The balance between technology and human elements in field service
Lee also shares his tried-and-tested strategies for optimising field service management, covering everything from scheduling and real-time tracking to improving reporting and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re transitioning from paper-based processes or aiming to improve efficiency, this episode is packed with insights for businesses of any size.
Key topics include:
Digital transformation in field service
Change management techniques
Process mapping for success
Overcoming implementation hurdles
Maximising ROI from field service software

In this episode of Field Service Stories, we follow Matthew Powell's remarkable transformation from plumber to tech innovator. Alongside his brother, Matthew is revolutionising the UK home services industry with WarmZilla, a company that’s redefining how boilers are bought and installed.
With a lean team of just 10, WarmZilla has grown into a multi-million-pound business by offering fast, smart service powered by innovative field service management software. Matthew shares insights into:
Building a distinctive and memorable brand
How to connect with Gen Z in an old-school industry
The power of technology in improving efficiency
How field service management software is key to scaling a business
What customers expect in 2024 and beyond
What’s next for the home services sector
Whether you're in plumbing, heating, or any field service business, this episode is packed with insights on building a modern brand, leveraging technology, and meeting ever-changing customer expectations.