Meet “SuperSealer” Simon Burke

This month’s SuperSealer is a soccer dad who’s well trained in juggling multiple roles and responsibilities. Having worked with Trelleborg for over a decade, he’s more passionate than ever about the work he’s doing and the company’s growing role in driving sustainability. 

Who are you?

My name is Simon Burke and I’m Managing Director of Trelleborg’s Seals & Profiles operations in the EMEA and APAC market.

What are your key duties?

Since the merger with Trelleborg Sealing Profiles earlier this year, I have delegated my responsibilities for Seals & Profiles Americas to Smith McKee and taken over responsibility for our sealing profile operations in EMEA and APAC. This essentially means managing a business that’s much bigger. My overall goal for the foreseeable future will involve overseeing this transition and delivering strategic direction and growth. It’s a large remit, but I have a great team of people behind me.

How long have you been with Trelleborg? What do you enjoy most about working here?

I’ve been with Trelleborg for 12 years now, having originally joined as Business Developer for the APAC region. In 2012, I moved to New Hampshire to become the Commercial Manager for North America, before arriving in Europe in 2017. I love that Trelleborg is always changing, as this offers opportunities to develop our people and our operations, while also leading to potential synergies and growth.

What are the key challenges you face in your role?

With so many changes happening internally, we need to make sure the customer remains our number one focus. We know we can deliver the right solutions, often custom made, with the high quality and level of service that users expect. When precision counts and reliability matters, Trelleborg delivers.

How will your business evolve in the future? How are you preparing for this?

The market landscape is changing rapidly. Trends like population growth and urbanization put tremendous strain on communities and their water and sanitation networks, especially in areas where water is scarce. What’s more, with increased awareness surrounding global warming and the need for renewable energy, Trelleborg has a key role to play in creating buildings that are comfortable and energy efficient. With our pipe seals and sealing profiles, we’re supporting the sustainable development of societies worldwide.

What do you do in your free time?

My wife and I have four children, so our weekends are kept pretty busy running them to soccer club or gymnastics practice and swimming lessons. In the meantime, I keep fit by keeping goal for my local soccer team. I haven’t touched my mountain bike for a while, but I plan to start riding again this summer.