As Brian Reh mentioned in his blog post last year, we've had several exciting changes in our leadership team over the past few months. One of those changes was that David Pritchard, our former VP of Operations, has moved into the VP of Sales and Customer Experience role. We wanted to give you a chance to get to know David a little better, so we asked him a few questions:
How long have you been at Gorbel®?
After spending 25 years in the automotive industry and 7 years in the medical device industry, I joined the amazing team at Gorbel® in September of 2015. As of January 2018, that puts my longevity at Gorbel® at 2 years and 5 months!
If you had to narrow it down to one, what’s been your favorite moment/memory of Gorbel® so far?
It is incredibly difficult to narrow it down to one favorite moment or memory thus far, because a lot has happened in the last 2 years and 5 months! I would say the thing that resonates with me the most is the collaboration of team members on a daily basis and particularly within the 21 Kaizens that Gorbel® has experienced in the last one and a half years. I am so excited when I see the genuine interest in continuous improvement and the results that evolve from these events….both personal and professional results. Beyond that (If I am allowed to get super specific with another example), is the celebration of Gorbel®’s 40th anniversary. This milestone could not have been achieved without a vision, talented and committed employees, meaningful and impactful products, and a customer base willing to work side by side with us as we support them and continue to improve their experience.
What do you like most about being at Gorbel®?
There is a common theme running through my comments, and that is the people that I work with – in New York, Alabama and China. It is rare to find an environment in which there is tremendous respect for others and accomplishing great things together. This is my first experience working at a privately held company, and it has been a fantastic experience in so many ways. And….decision making is quick being localized versus my previous experiences in larger, corporate settings.
If you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
I have a love for music and enjoy singing weekly in choirs and playing the piano. On my list in 2018 is to learn to play the oboe (I know that it is similar to the clarinet which I have played in the past) and am considering learning the Barbershop Quartet style of singing. Beyond music, I love to play golf (regardless of the score), love to play “Words With Friends” and spending time with my wife Robin and daughters Lauren (26) and Nicole (21) – whether it be at the kitchen table or on a family vacation.
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your ten year old self?
I would recommend to my ten year old self to not be so concerned about perfection – every detail doesn’t have to be quite perfect (in most cases). Attention to detail is important…yet perfection is not always required. Take a step back and continue to advance things and the perfection will evolve from the wisdom of the team. Be really open to the wisdom of others. I would have a little less gray hair if I heeded that advice!
What would be the title of your autobiography?
This is easy. When I read this question, it was the first thing that popped into my mind.
The name of the autobiography would be “Grateful”.
I am always and constantly thankful about the town I grew up in (Rome NY!) and the simple yet rich experiences in my family while growing up. The opportunity to attend St. John Fisher College and learn so much about academics – yet equally important – learn about people and form lifelong relationships. It has been 35 years since I graduated (’83) and I still enjoy strong friendships and am thankful for that. I am grateful for all of the opportunities since graduating working in the automotive industry, medical device industry, and now at Gorbel®. I have learned so much, and have met so many fantastic people over my career.
Thankful, appreciative. “Grateful”.
What are you most proud of in your personal life? In your life at Gorbel®?
In my personal life, I am most proud of my family (Robin, Lauren and Nicole) and how much fun we have had over the years and continue to have. There is a ton of love and laughter no matter where we are or what time of day. Regarding Gorbel, I am very proud – and humbled - to work with a very committed, intelligent and a fun team of people who care for each other.
Thanks, David!
Stay tuned for more employee profiles in the coming months...