When Johnathan Irwin joined Sperrin Galvanisers in 2020, he stepped into a hands-on, high-responsibility role as Quality Manager. This position quickly became the foundation of a career marked by growth, grit, and a hunger to evolve.
In his early days, Johnathan was at the heart of the company’s Quality Management System. He led internal audits, supported external compliance checks, and rolled up his sleeves on the shop floor to ensure product integrity: pre-galvanizing inspections, welding, repairs, and all. – I care about the work and the team – he explains. – That’s why I take it personally if something slips through the cracks.
His work ethic quickly made him a trusted figure in the yard, and his ability to balance technical precision with collaboration helped streamline production and elevate standards.
Stepping Up: From the Shop Floor to the Client’s Door
But Johnathan’s story doesn’t stop at quality.
In 2025, he took a leap, adding Technical Sales to his already demanding role. This dual position has opened new doors, allowing him to blend technical knowledge with client interaction and commercial strategy. – It’s busy, no doubt – he says. – But I’ve enjoyed the challenge and the variety. Getting out to meet customers, solving their problems, and working on pricing has been a rewarding shift.
He’s especially proud of initiatives like the passivation project—a process he led from trial to full-scale implementation. Working with suppliers to tailor solutions for live galvanising environments wasn’t easy, but it paid off. – Having full rein to develop that solution made it all the more meaningful – he says.
The journey from inspector to commercial lead has also brought its fair share of lessons. As Johnathan admits, transitioning away from the hands-on work hasn’t been easy. – Sometimes I still find myself jumping in on drilling or repairs. I know I need to step back and focus on the sales side, but in a small business, you help where you’re needed.
It’s that mix of humility and ambition that defines his approach.
Mindset, Mentorship, and Meaningful Results
Behind his development has been a mix of personal drive and company support. – My manager has backed me all the way – Johnathan shares. – But now, I’m ready for more structure—formal training, leadership development, clear targets. I don’t want to plateau. I want to keep moving forward.
So what keeps him going?
– The results – he says without hesitation. – Seeing high-quality work leave the yard. Solving a problem for a client. It’s all tangible and that’s what makes it worth it.
When asked about the culture at Sperrin, Johnathan is honest and balanced:
It’s a respectful, collaborative place. You’re trusted to do your job. And while I’d like more autonomy in my new role, I know that trust is something you earn over time. I’m working on that.
His advice for anyone joining Sperrin?
– Get stuck in. Say yes to things – even if you’re unsure. That’s how you grow. You’ll make mistakes. You’ll feel out of your depth sometimes. But if you’re committed and willing to learn, there’s a lot of opportunity here.
From quality control to client-facing leadership, Johnathan Irwin’s story is a testament to what can happen when technical excellence meets ambition and when you’re not afraid to take the next step, even if it means stepping outside your comfort zone.
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