In our ongoing interviews with our staff, we are happy to introduce you to Mr. Jerry Ramirez, our representative in the Caribbean, with an emphasis on the English-speaking islands! A native of Costa Rica, Jerry has spent a big part of his life working from Miami, USA. We are proud he is on our team !!
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your professional background before joining Rebain?
I received my Masters degree in International Business Studies in 1988. Soon after receiving my degree from the University of South Carolina, I began my career in the chemical distribution business. I started in 1988 with Unocal (Union Oil Company of California) in their chemical distribution division. After Unocal sold off the chemical division to another company, I went to work with Andes Chemical Corp of Miami in 1992. At that time Andes was only 6 years in business, and I liked the idea of growing it into a bigger company. Consequently, I stayed with Andes until 2023 a total of 31 years until I was no longer happy with the direction of the company after they were purchased by a large international distribution company, IMCD headquartered in the Netherlands.
What attracted you to join Rebain International?
I was interested and attracted to join Rebain from my previous experience working with them as one of my suppliers. Rebain always was quick with replies to our inquiries and the customer service and sales support team always seemed very supportive and helpful. The family small company orientation of Rebain appealed to my independent streak. After I left Andes, I thought I could work with Rebain and help them further penetrate their sales into the Caribbean region
What are the most important skills for a commercial in this region?
For the region that I have dedicated my working life to, I believe you need to treat all parties both from the supplier end to the customer end with respect and integrity. It takes many years to develop your reputation but, in an instant, you can tarnish this reputation. It is important that you try to solve the suppliers and customers needs and requirements. In addition, you must solve these issues quickly and efficiently. If you do not do this your partners will seek other suppliers. Things can deteriorate quickly, and one must avoid this at all cost.
Are there specific objectives you would like to achieve in your new role?
In my relatively small role with Rebain I would like to nurture and continue to develop my customer relationships within the region. This will take some time and patience but because most customers know me from my previous job they will at least give me the opportunities to work with and support them as a new member of the Rebain team.
Can you share a previous project you worked on that you believe has prepared you for this new challenge?
I have been in the chemical distribution business for over 35 years and during this time I had to work on several projects with our suppliers. On these projects, I had to coordinate and balance the needs of both parties. These projects were time-consuming and were not always successful. In addition, in some instances, I had to work with government entities as well. As a result, of this I am prepared and ready for the new challenges with Rebain.
What has been your biggest challenge in your career, and what did you learn from that experience?
My biggest challenge is trying to meet exceptions placed by company management, suppliers, and customers. The ability to work with all of these parties who have different goals, values, and requirements is not easy. I have constantly been challenged by these circumstances. However, at the end of the day, I learned that my loyalty and devotion is to my employer above all else. Not everyone will always be happy but you put your best efforts into managing these challenges. In the end, I can say that at least I tried my best efforts.
What opportunities do you see in the Caribbean market for Rebain?
Although Rebain has not been concentrated in the Caribbean coatings and construction market, I still see many opportunities for Rebain with this sector as well as others where Andes was not able to participate. Personal care, household institutions, and the oil industry are where I see several opportunities for Rebain. The important factor is to introduce Rebain to potential customers and show them where Rebain might be able to help them with their raw material needs. We are in the problem-solving business and customers are always looking for a supplier that can address their problems. This is where I see great potential for Rebain to be successful. It is no doubt challenging and requires patience and understanding but I am positive that over time Rebain will become a trusted and valued source of chemicals in the Caribbean market.
What excites you the most about working with the Rebain team?
I am excited about working with the Rebain team who by themselves have lots of years of chemical raw material experience throughout many regions of the world. From the short time I have been associated with Rebain I feel like they value my experience and likewise, they have been willing to share their experiences and knowledge with me. The small company atmosphere appeals highly to me as this cuts down significantly the red tape that many large companies suffer from. It makes me feel excited about this unique opportunity and I know Rebain will continue to be successful going forward.
Finally, is there anything else you would like to share with us?
Just the fact that you are requesting that I give you my opinion on these questions shows me the interest and value that Rebain places on their employees. In my experience, this type of interest is rarely asked of employees once they come aboard. It is because of this that I feel Rebain is the right place to be.
