20 Years of David Robinson at Hitachi Construction Machinery UK

Could you briefly introduce yourself? Eg – name, are you married? Kids? Hobbies

I’m Dave Robinson, my partner Claire and I have two kids. My 13-year-old daughter Aimee and 6-year-old son Jack. My life outside of work is the typical family-oriented type, running around after kids!

How long have you worked for HCMUK and what is your current job role?

HM Plant Ltd and HCMUK combined for 20 Years, my current job role is Product Development Team Leader.

What are some of your most memorable projects?

In 2008 I was part of a small group who travelled to Amsterdam for 12 weeks, we were tasked to assemble and customise UK market machines. I made some good friends and have some fun memories from this time.

What makes you proud to work for HCMUK?

I’ve worked for the company for over half of my life, initially I was concerned about starting my employment in a factory-based environment coming from a job where I travelled site to site. I had a preconception that I’d be in a dirty, dark and noisy building. 

However, HCMUK is far from this, we all do our best to keep the building and surroundings to a high standard. I often walk suppliers around the premises with my head held high proud of what we have become.

Which of our values comes into play during your day-to-day work?

Due to the development requirements that I deal with in my day-to-day work the values must be Customer and Innovation.

How has the company’s culture changed over the years?

I’ve always enjoyed my time here, lots of areas within the culture have changed over the years. As I’m getting older, along with being a parent one change that appeals to me is the introduction of Health and Wellbeing and the benefits provided.

Describe one of your favourite work moments.

In 2017 I was involved in specification changes to our dash 6 mini range of machines, many designs and drawings passed back and forth until a prototype was available to inspect. The inspection was carried out at Tierra works in Japan; I spent 5 days with our Japanese colleagues, I will never forget the kind hospitality and experience I had during my visit.

Name a role model who has inspired you in your career in the last 20 years.

My dad is my role model, but one person from my career who has inspired myself and many others would have to be our old Production Manager Rob Gray. 

Rob had a level of ability to lead a team that was second to none. I was lucky enough to work side by side with Rob for several years. I believe he is part of who I am today.

Thank you David, for your continued hard work over the last 20 years!