Brian Smithers

Visionary
DISC Type : Ds

Group Managing Director at Ashworth

London, England, United Kingdom

Overview

Brian Smithers is the Group Managing Director of Ashworth, a leading UK distributor for mechanical and process industries. A mechanical engineer by trade with a Certificate in Management, he has an extensive background in sales and strategic development. Colleagues and partners describe him as a visionary, innovative, and natural leader.

Outside of his corporate role, Brian is an avid golfer and has participated in team-based mud run challenges for charitable causes. He shows a strong appreciation for team building and camaraderie, both in and out of the office, and enjoys celebrating the success of his colleagues.

He is so passionate about his industrys key events that his company became the headline sponsor for an awards ceremony he has personally attended since its inception.

Personality Overview

Early Adopter

Direct & Assertive

Fast But Thoughtful

They are very professional in their approach and can weigh multiple perspectives together.  They exhibit a rare combination of being result-oriented but patient at the same time. They might take some time to make their mind up but once they do, they don't change it easily.

Topics They Care About

Industrial Distribution
He manages a leading UK distributor and has built his career in the sector, with previous leadership roles at Pipe Center and Rexel.
Business Leadership
As a Group Managing Director, he is praised in recommendations for his ability to inspire, energize, and lead with strong business acumen.
Energy Efficiency
In his previous strategic roles, he was a spokesperson on the importance of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and developing the necessary infrastructure.

Media Appearances

Brian has no verified media appearances

Work History

12-2025
Group Managing Director at Ashworth
3-2018 - 12-2025
Managing Director at Ashworth
11-2015 - 2-2018
Sales Director - London & SE - Pipe & Climate at Pipe Center
1-2013 - 9-2015
Strategic Development Director Northern Europe Zone at Rexel UK Ltd
6-2011 - 1-2013
Business Development Director UK at Rexel

Education

1982 - 1987
Education details unavailable from University of Nottingham
1982 - 1987
Education details unavailable from Parsloes Manor

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 22 Location : London, England, United Kingdom Job Level : Mid-senior Designation : Group Managing Director at Ashworth
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Insights For Selling To Brian

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Ask them at the end if they see a strong value prop in your product; expect an honest answer
  • Use phrases like 'your team deserves', 'best in class' etc.
  • Focus on the results that your product produces, expect some strategic questions in return

DONT's

  • Don't take their patience for granted, avoid long-winding sermons
  • Don't shy away from asking hard questions, but be extra polite
  • Don't focus too much on mutual contacts or bother about other stakeholders, focus on them

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Brian is

  • Strong proof of impact and their conviction will matter the most, but they wouldn't want to act unilaterally either
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Brian

  • They will say no if they are not convinced but you will have to prompt them.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Brian move?

  • They will want to understand things well but can move fast once they have a clear picture.
  • Can Brian take some risk or not?

  • They have good risk tolerance but are likely to think it through once or twice.

You And Brian

Personality Compatibility


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