Welcome to the next edition of Leadership Matters where we ask leaders around the Pacific Zone for their insights and advice about leadership matters to support our continuing journey of personal and professional development.
In this edition, we hear from Sales Director, Home & Distribution (H&D) Luigi Mollica, who is responsible for leading sales growth with the commercial and sales team.
Luigi (Lui) has been with the H&D business for nearly 25 years, where he led the national residential builder team, worked as a national commercial manager in distribution, and held various sales roles for a decade before that. A former electrician, Lui is passionate about fostering sustainable energy solutions and driving a highly motivated sales force.
Outside of work Lui is a passionate sports fan supporting South Sydney Rabbitohs and Sydney Swans. He enjoys outdoor activities such as running, swimming at his local Coogee beach, and travelling Europe with his family.
What motivates and excites you about your role at Schneider Electric?
I am deeply passionate about the company's purpose and its people. Taking on the role of Sales Director for H&D has brought me great excitement, particularly in watching my mentees within the sales team grow into managerial positions and expand their expertise.
Engaging directly with our customers, a diverse range of electricians, and distributors, as well as delving into commercial agreements, launching new products, and gathering feedback, is thrilling and adds a rich and rewarding dimensions to my role.
We’re one of the leading companies in the world when it comes to sustainability. How are you and your team contributing to this?
We are actively contributing to sustainability through various initiatives. We are not only embedding sustainable practices within our strong Clipsal sales team, but also advocating these practices to influence our customers' business operations. Our commitment to transitioning over 30% of our fleet to EVs by the end of 2025, with the goal of reaching 100% by 2030, highlights our dedication to sustainable transportation.
Additionally, our pledge to eliminate single-use plastics and transition to sustainable packaging across our entire Clipsal portfolio by 2025, as exemplified by the MAX9 range packaging made from over 70% recycled cardboard, further demonstrates our proactive approach to sustainability. We are truly excited about the positive impact these efforts will have on our company, our customers, and the environment.
Of the customers you’re working with currently, what are they doing to be an #ImpactMaker in the market in which they’re operating?
The customers we're working with are truly #ImpactMakers in their respective markets. For instance, our electricians in Western Australia are moving their fleet vans to EV fleet vans, reducing emissions, and promoting sustainable practices.
Additionally, wholesalers are making strides by transitioning their buildings and warehouses to be more sustainable. Our customers are expanding their online presence and utilising digital platforms to better serve its customers, embracing technology for a more efficient and sustainable approach. It's truly inspiring to see such a diverse range of impactful initiatives across our customer base.
What was a moment in your career that was pivotal or changed you in some way?
A pivotal moment in my career was when executives Chris Kerr (CEO of Clipsal) and Alex Gillespie (Previous Clipsal Sales Director) joined the business and initiated a shift to a B2B focus, significantly altering how Clipsal goes to market.
The change in management and the refocus on the business transformed the company and allowed me to contribute with my experience and technical expertise. It was a defining moment that broadened my perspective and provided me with invaluable opportunities for growth and development. This experience has truly shaped my approach to future business decisions and leadership within my team.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
The advice that resonates with me day-to-day is to never shy away from a difficult decision or circumstance. It will always be there waiting for you; it just becomes bigger and harder to deal with.
Which of our company values resonates with you most and why?
The new IMPACT values all resonate with me, but the one that resonates the most is Curiosity. It’s a reminder to question the status quo daily, be open to new ideas and best practices from a range of experiences within the team, from interns and graduates to those with decades of experience. In the face of changing market demands, remaining curious and up to date on trends will keep us at the forefront of our industry.