An insight into the life and role of Stephen Chibnall, Business Manager – Networks
The staff at Loop Technologies are truly instrumental to the business, not just for day-to-day operations
but for the ongoing success of the company. We would like to continue introducing you to the team helping to create behind the scenes magic, next up is Stephen Chibnall, Business Manager who has been with Loop Technologies (formerly Repair Group Ltd) since 1999. We recently sat down and asked Stephen the hard questions.
What was your career background before joining Loop?
Upon leaving secondary school I started off making aluminium joinery for a company and then confirmed a role with NZ Rail in their telecommunications division. During my time at NZ Rail, I gained NZQA qualifications and worked on a wide range of radio, data and general electric projects, gaining a solid grounding in problem solving and the technology industry. Being part of a small division within a large company meant that I had to be resourceful and make do with what I had to find solutions to technical issues.
After a lengthy stint at NZ Rail, I joined Telecom in 1996 for three years and continued that role into Repair Group Ltd in 1999 which of course went on to become Loop Technologies.
What made you want to get into the technology/engineering industry?
I’ve have always had a keen interest in electronics and from a young age I had hobbies in restoring cars and building telescopes, the industry was a logical interest and step for me.
What does your role at Loop involve?
As a Business Manager I have 15 direct reports and a number of key customers who I work with to find solutions to their technical problems. Designing repair and preconfiguration network solutions predominantly for the telecommunications sector I also tackle large technical projects for government organisations. A recent example being the refurbishment of a fleet of electric locomotives for KiwiRail.
Managing my team is important to me, staff are a vital responsibility. I take people management seriously and do what I can to make sure my staff are valued. The staff here are a such a great asset.
What would you say is your favourite part of the role?
My role is constantly challenging, but it is rewarding because there are always so many problems to solve and technological solutions to be found.
You have to be creative in this role and I enjoy that, some of the equipment we deal with is 30+ years old, no longer manufactured and parts aren’t available. As you tick off the challenges that come with each project it’s a true reward and a great feeling.
I also enjoy managing my staff, I’m grateful to have such a fantastic team to work with every day.
What are the values that drive you?
I have several values that drive me in both my personal and work life but the two that really underpin my approach to things would be fairness and honesty. Whether I’m interacting with customers, staff, friends, or family, I pride myself on being honest in my work and my approach. I like to ensure that my team and clients always feel respected – our clients put a lot of trust in us to handle their product so honesty at all times is essential.
What would you say about working at Loop Technologies?
Loop Technologies takes pride in being a small-medium company that does big things and it’s great to be a part of that.
People here share my values, we’re a value driven company. Honesty and fairness are very much ingrained as is respect for the environment, customers and staff. We also have a strong focus on quality and that aligns well with my own work ethic.
We certainly have our challenges; the company has to be agile and keep evolving because technologies change but that’s the exciting part to work through. I really enjoy the variety that my role at Loop Technologies brings.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work I’m a keen outdoorsman, I love getting out and about and exploring everything New Zealand has to offer. In particular I enjoy kayak fishing and tramping. I’m about halfway through ticking off the list of the DOC great walks. This year I’ve completed the Tongariro Northern Circuit and the Pureora Timber Trail via bike. Last year I finished the Kepler Track and the Ruapehu Crater Lake Summit, next on the list is the Routeburn in early 2023.
I also keep busy in the kitchen enjoying cooking and baking (breadmaking in particular) and I teach Astronomy to the public and society members through the Hamilton Astronomical Society a couple of evenings per month.