Meet SMC Corporation ANZ's new MD

When recently appointed Managing Director Simon McDonald talks about SMC Corporation Australia New Zealand, four keywords continuously surface: success, growth, investment and improvement.

McDonald’s journey with SMC began in 2018 when he was appointed Chief Financial Officer, working closely with former Managing Director Wayne Driver.

“SMC has a history of strong leaders, and during my tenure as CFO, Wayne empowered me to take on several broader business responsibilities. Moving into the role of Managing Director has been an extension of these responsibilities,” McDonald said.

“A highlight to date has been how we’ve been able to achieve a high level of internal transparency and strategic direction, creating alignment and driving a strong workplace culture.

“We invest in our people, and they invest in SMC, which strengthens and supports everything that we do — from customer service and technical support to product innovation and the development of genuine solutions.”

Naturally, SMC’s products need to be readily available to customers, to meet the high demand for quality automation solutions in the market. As a result, McDonald said that the team has ambitions to increase the volume of product in the market and believes that it has all the support required to achieve this realistic goal. “There is a clear and achievable path ahead. We have the people, resources, skills and experience to deliver without question. I feel confident knowing that I am backed by a team of this calibre, and it makes my job that much easier.”

A futurist by nature, McDonald said that what excites him most about the automation industry is that it’s forever evolving. “The continuous innovation within our range and the industries that we service helps to create new opportunities. The manufacturing sector continues to evolve — it’s incredibly exciting.

“The business has incredible foundations and strengths, but also opportunities, and I wanted to be a part of the continuation of SMC’s success and growth,” McDonald said.