A Leader with Determination

The key to successful leadership is determination. Without determination, nothing will come to fruition. Plans, ideas, and goals will be stagnant without the perseverance to make them come to life. To be an effective leader with unbounded determination, characteristics of determination such as drive, persistence, initiative, and dominance must be seen and applied. People with determination show initiative by being proactive and are willing to do what is necessary and beyond, even without being told to do so.

Natalie McGreavy, the Managing Director of KWC DVS, is a shining example of a leader who has risen through the ranks. Her journey began in 2008 when she joined KWC DVS as an Apprentice Office Administrator at the age of 17. With the company's support and her own determination, Natalie excelled in various roles, from Internal Sales to Purchasing and Operations, showcasing her potential and drive for success.

Natalie’s determination and adaptability have not only propelled her career but also shaped the future of KWC DVS. Her willingness to progress and her ability to adapt to new roles led her to a position in HR. With successful completion of both CIPD Level 3 and, subsequently, Level 5, she became a specialist in this area, broadening her involvement with the worldwide divisions of the Group. As the Managing Director, Natalie has worked tirelessly to modernize the UK business, instilling a sense of security and confidence in the company's future.

Natalie has created a vibrant and healthy culture by fostering a working environment that aims to develop growth with employees who are happy, motivated to progress, and have a work-life balance. The culture is inclusive – working from home, casual dress code, and team events to engage employees and promote a positive atmosphere throughout the team. Natalie’s understanding of how the business operates daily and the team’s individual needs has helped transform the company. They are now a company open to new ideas that promote an inclusive environment.

Natalie has ensured that her team works closely with managers to offer internal growth opportunities; internal training and succession planning are carried out quarterly to identify critical potential within the team—this planning and guidance results in enhanced productivity and success. “I have been with the business for 16 years, and my advice to all is to show a willingness to learn, learn from mistakes, and don’t be afraid to take on new challenges and deal with conflict,” says Natalie, “My mother has been my inspiration because she has always been hardworking, and this has massively influenced my career. She has always worked hard to ensure everyone is looked after; I am forever grateful for her selfless nature, and she always inspires me with her genuine kindness in my everyday life, including my career.”

KWC Professional is a designer and manufacturer of fittings, accessories and intelligent systems for commercial washrooms. KWC, formerly a Franke Group division is positioned as a premium provider in the mid- to high-end market. It is a popular choice for many developers, architects, and installers, having established a strong brand in its market.

KWC Professional offers an extensive product range, including manual and electronic taps, washbasins, flushing systems, urinals and sanitaryware for the commercial sector and public infrastructure projects such as hospitals, schools, and prisons. KWC Professional has an extensive distributor network worldwide and employs nearly 450 people across its production facilities, R&D centers, and sales offices in the United Arab Emirates, Germany, Austria, Finland, and the UK.

As an independent business unit, KWC Professional pursues profitable, international growth. To this end, they selectively expand their distribution channels in existing markets and break into new country markets. They seek to lead as a systems and solutions provider in the commercial, public, and semi-public markets. In doing so, they focus on washrooms and water management systems. “We expand our specialty applications, barrier-free product range, and tailored product solutions,” explains Natalie. “Our full-line range of products and services makes us the preferred partner for our target segments. Our water management systems are a unique selling point that we continue developing in the commercial and public sectors market.”

KWC DVS has achieved so many accomplishments, where they have successfully merged two business entities within the UK, changed ownership on several occasions, implemented a new ERP system on a very short timescale, completed various premises moves, and won large tenders in the UK public and private sectors. “I believe the team has adapted positively to a culture of accepting change, which has played a big part in all of the company’s achievements. Across the team, there is a wealth of knowledge and experience and I’m grateful for our expertise on our team to deliver success for the company,” elucidates Natalie. “Still relatively new to the role as Managing Director, I wish to gain a comprehensive understanding of strategic management and how I can put plans into place for the future success of KWC DVS. We strive to enhance our market positioning by realizing successes and exploring the possibility of organic and inorganic growth.”