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At William Smith, our unique 'Buddy System' brings together two distinct roles to create a seamless customer experience. With an External Account Manager like Sharon actively building relationships out in the field, and an Internal Account Manager like Sarah ensuring every client's needs are addressed promptly from the office, this partnership offers a compelling combination of hands-on and back-end support. In the South East, Sharon and Sarah exemplify just how potent this system can be.

Q: "Firstly, could you both share a little bit about your background and how you joined William Smith?"

Sharon: "I’ve worked in the signage industry since 2002 and I joined William Smith in 2011. It's been a long journey — in fact, I’ve looked after some of the same accounts for nearly two decades now! It’s been amazing to see so many of them rise through the ranks from apprentices to owning their own successful businesses, getting married, having children, and even becoming grandparents!”

Sarah: “I started at William Smith in May 2016, with very little true ‘sales’ experience. However, I have worked in customer-facing roles for most of my working life and think that has helped during my time here.”

Q: "What were your first impressions of each other?"

Sharon: "Sarah immediately struck me as someone who was on the same wavelength. Plus, we share a love for farming and animals, which my daughter is passionate about."

Sarah: "Sharon seemed extremely knowledgeable and professional, a real role model, and a little bit scary!"

Q: "What makes your buddy excel in their role?"

Sharon: "Sarah understands the issues our customers face and is always incredibly helpful. I think the fact that we’re both able to work so seamlessly together is the key to our success.”

Sarah: "Sharon has so much knowledge and insight into the sign and graphics industry. She has a very professional and dedicated outlook and has built up some amazing customer relationships over the years.”

Q: "How do you communicate and align on goals and strategies?"

Sharon: "We just do it. It's hard to explain, but we understand each other and make it work."

Sarah: "We have regular calls and Teams sessions. Sharon's always there to help with any issues, especially around pricing."

Q: "What were your first impressions of the South East?"

Sharon: "I’m not sure how to answer that question! I’ve worked in the area for 21 years, two years as inside sales and 19 years as an external account manager. The South East has always been my manor as I was born and bred in South East London.”

Sarah: "It was a bit overwhelming at first, but I’ve built up some great relationships over the last few years. Sharon’s been a big help too as she knows the area inside out.”

Q: "What's the best thing about working with your buddy?"

Sharon: "Having Sarah by my side is great as I have someone to 'chew the fat' with when needed. She takes fantastic care of the area on the days when I’m off and I never have to worry about it.

Sarah: "Sharon is a great mentor. She’s very loyal, caring, and conscientious!”

Q: "Finally, if you had to describe your buddy in one word, what would it be?"

Sharon: "Awesome."

Sarah: "Superstar."