Employee Highlight - Chris's Story
From starting as a boilermaker in 2017 to now managing complex logistics and preparing to move into commercial estimating, Chris’s Kotzur journey is a clear example of career growth and opportunity in action.
After spending several years on the tools, Chris transitioned into the role of Logistics and Asset Coordinator, and more recently began preparing to join the Commercial Estimating team. For Chris, no two days are ever the same. “A typical day can involve everything from scheduling silo deliveries and coordinating warehouse goods, to liaising with clients,” he says. “There are always different challenges, and that’s what keeps it interesting.”
His role has grown significantly over time, something Chris credits to both his own initiative and the trust placed in him by leaders at Kotzur. “When I first started, I had a plan to grow within the business,” Chris explains. “I was selected for the coordinator role by the plant manager, but I always knew I wanted to keep developing.”
Chris now handles multiple responsibilities across logistics, warehousing, assets, and training, all while building his leadership skills. “I’ve developed stronger communication and organisational skills, and I’ve learned how to work better as part of a team,” he reflects. “I enjoy being able to lead by example and set the standard.”
When asked about a highlight in his role, Chris is quick to point to the scope and scale of silo deliveries he’s helped coordinate. “I’ve scheduled deliveries from Townsville all the way to Port Hedland. That kind of reach is something I’m proud of.”
Chris says Kotzur stands apart from other workplaces because of the career pathways on offer. “You’re not stuck in one role. If you want to learn and grow, the opportunity is there,” he says. “There’s training, leadership development, and support across the business.”
When asked if he could switch jobs with someone at Koztur for a day, who would it be and why, Christ said he’d jump straight into the top role. “It would have to be Dean Glanvill, Kotzur's General Manager. My father is a General Manager as well and one day I hope to have the same opportunity.”
Outside of work, Chris enjoys camping with family and friends and takes pride in his well-kept lawn. He also devotes time to volunteering as Deputy Captain of the Walla Walla Rural Fire Brigade, contributing to his community through fire callouts, training, and events.
Asked what advice he’d give someone considering a role at Kotzur, Chris doesn’t hesitate: “I recently encouraged a neighbour to apply. I told him, ‘Kotzur is a third-generation family business where you’re known by your name, not just your pay slip. You’ll be looked after here.’”