It’s time to put Ross Carty in the hot seat for a “5 Minutes With.” Discover how Ross drives Stonhard’s marketing communications strategy - boosting brand visibility and expanding market reach across Europe - through a blend of traditional and digital marketing.
What is your role at Kemtile?
As Marketing Manager for Stonhard Europe, I collaborate closely with the UK division of Stonhard - Kemtile - to drive brand development and lead-generation efforts across the UK to ensure messaging is clear, consistent and reaching the right audiences.
Can you share a bit about your background and experience in the flooring industry?
I’m relatively new to the flooring industry, with just over two and a half years of experience. However, I was familiar with the Kemtile brand before I started working for Stonhard Europe, having worked for another RPM subsidiary for many years. Marketing principles can be applied to any business, and in collaboration with the team, I develop strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening our brand’s visibility, reputation, and market penetration across the region. This involves a focused effort to generate prospects and leads within both established and emerging vertical markets, using a blend of traditional and digital marketing strategies.
Can you highlight a favourite project or accomplishment you’ve been involved in while working at Kemtile?
The team have been very open to leveraging my strategic marketing experience and tactical strengths, and I’ve been pleased to support the continued growth of the Kemtile brand alongside Stonhard UK. I particularly enjoy working with the European team to create project profiles to showcase our experience in the various industries we work in.
Of course, it’s always exciting launching new products - such as Stonkote ESD – which was introduced earlier this year. Apologies for the product plug ! This high-performance epoxy coating provides electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection and delivers outstanding performance, vibrant colour options and a faster installation process by eliminating the need for a conductive primer. There is so much knowledge in the Stonhard and Kemtile team and it’s thoroughly rewarding working with sales, product development, design and leadership when new product launches come about.
What is the best career advice you have ever received?
“Opportunities don’t happen. You create them”
What is your favourite thing about working at Stonhard?
Working at Stonhard is a lot of fun because of the people, market-leading products, different geographic locations and interesting markets we operate in, all of which contribute to a dynamic and exciting work environment. My previous career I was formerly the Group Marketing Director at USL Group, a fellow RPM Inc. organisation, where I was responsible for managing USL's internal marketing function and promoting their products and services to the civil engineering and construction industries around the world.
Although only a small portion of my time is dedicated to the Kemtile business, I want to acknowledge the people. Their enthusiasm and professionalism extend not just to the business, but to the flooring industry as a whole.
Who are your key role models/inspirations?
Probably my dad. He is a talented and hardworking engineer who has contributed to high-profile projects around the world. While I’m not in engineering, my role also spans multiple countries, much like his work did, and I hope I’ve inherited some of the qualities.
Getting to know you…
What is your favourite
Movie – Shawshank Redemption
Album – Californication, Red Hot Chilli Peppers.
Most people don’t know that…I played cricket at a high level in the Northeast Premier League and represented Sunderland Boys in football until age 16.
In my spare time...I enjoy spending time with my family, supporting Sunderland AFC and try to keep relatively fit.
