From starting out in Sales Support to becoming Sales Director, Shaun Kimpton’s journey at Storm Procurement is a great example of how roles evolve alongside the business itself. Over the years, his perspective has changed from learning the day-to-day to understanding the bigger picture, from client needs to long-term strategy.
In this interview, Shaun reflects on his early days at Storm, the challenges that come with stepping into leadership, and the lessons that still shape how he approaches sales today.
What was your role when you first joined Storm, and what do you remember most about those early days?
My journey at Storm Procurement began in Sales Support, where the early days were all about learning, absorbing knowledge from colleagues across the business and understanding the different ways people structured their day. I was surrounded by big personalities and diverse working styles, which gave me a unique opportunity to take it all in, shaping my perspective and laying a strong foundation for my future growth within the company.
How did your understanding of the business change as your role evolved?
As my role evolved, my understanding of the business shifted from simply observing how individuals worked to seeing how everything connects, from client needs and supplier relationships to pricing, timelines, and overall strategy. What started as learning how people structure their day grew into a deeper appreciation of the bigger picture and the value each function brings. This broader perspective allowed me to move from supporting processes to actively contributing to them, with a clearer focus on delivering value to both clients and the business.
What was the hardest step in moving up through the business?
The hardest step in moving up through the business was shifting from learning and observing to taking full ownership and making decisions that impact the wider team and clients. Early on, I could rely on guidance from colleagues and focus on absorbing knowledge. As I progressed, I had to trust my judgment, navigate complex situations, and balance competing priorities, all while maintaining relationships and delivering results. It was challenging, but those moments were also the most rewarding in shaping my growth and leadership within Storm Procurement.
What skills from your time as Sales support still influence how you approach sales today?
My time in Sales Support taught me the importance of listening, observation, and understanding the bigger picture, skills that still guide how I approach my day to day. Learning from colleagues and seeing the different ways they managed their day showed me how attention to detail, effective communication, and adaptability can make a real difference. Those early lessons in supporting processes and understanding client needs continue to shape how I build relationships, anticipate challenges, and deliver value in every daily with staff and client interaction.
What motivates you when deals don’t go your way?
When deals don’t go my way, I see it as an opportunity rather than a setback. Each decision in the deal lifecycle offers valuable insights, whether it’s understanding client priorities, refining our approach, or identifying areas where we can improve as a team. As Sales Director, I focus on using these moments to learn, share knowledge, and strengthen our processes, turning every outcome into a stepping stone for future success. It’s this mindset that keeps the team motivated and constantly evolving.
What has changed most in client expectations over the years?
Over the years, client expectations have evolved significantly. As a market leader in the industries we serve, Storm Procurement is expected not just to meet, but to exceed every KPI within our scope of supply. Industries are constantly changing, and our commitment as a management team is to stay ahead, delivering at the highest standard, adapting to new challenges, and consistently providing exceptional value for our clients.
What excites you about where Storm is heading? Where do you see the biggest growth opportunities for Storm in the coming years?
What excites me most about Storm Procurement’s future is our ability to continue innovating while staying true to the core values that have made us a market leader. The energy and mining industries are evolving rapidly, and I see huge growth opportunities in leveraging technology, expanding our supply chain solutions, and deepening client partnerships. By staying agile, anticipating industry shifts, and investing in our people, we’re not just keeping pace, we’re shaping the future of the sectors we serve.
What do you enjoy most about working in sales at Storm?
What excites me most is driving sales growth alongside a talented team across diverse industries. Every day brings new challenges, opportunities, and insights, and I thrive on seeing both our results and the growth of my team. Experiencing new markets, meeting new people, and gaining fresh perspectives keeps me inspired both professionally and personally.
What’s been your proudest moment at Storm?
My proudest moment at Storm was being recognised by the shareholders for my contributions across various sales roles and being appointed Sales Director in 2022. It was a milestone that reflected years of learning, growth, and collaboration, and it reinforced my commitment to driving the team and the business forward.
What does Storm’s 20 year anniversary mean to you?
Storm’s 20-year anniversary is a milestone that fills me with pride and gratitude. Being part of the company’s growth, witnessing its evolution, and contributing to its success has been incredibly rewarding. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and excited to see what the next 20 years will bring.
