20 Nov Chief Operating Officer Vince takes a hands-on approach

Chief Operating Officer, Vince Gant, is Kent born and bred.  A certified chartered accountant, he joined Contacta in 2016, starting work with the company when it moved to its current offices in Paddock Wood.

His first position was as Finance Manager.  He brought with him experience of working in manufacturing and distribution, and entertainment, having briefly managed the finances of Margate’s Dreamland amusement park in its opening year.

Assistive listening systems and hearing loops were things he knew nothing about prior to joining Contacta.

“I’d never even seen a blue ear sign,” he says.  “But now, I can’t help adjusting our systems if I spot one when I’m out, and a microphone or speaker is slightly out of position!”

Vince describes his approach to his role as very ‘hands-on’.  He oversees finance, the warehouse, research and development, service delivery, IT and the overall day to day functions of all operations.

“I’m trying to be a bit more hands-off but it’s a challenge,” he says.  “My involvement has given me an appreciation for everything that goes on at Contacta.  I’ve been out for a day with one of our engineers, so I have an understanding of what their role looks like too.”

Vince says there is huge demand for hearing loops and the team works hard to help businesses understand the need to install assistive listening systems.

“Hearing loops offer so much benefit; you get in a taxi, go to a retail store or go the supermarket and you can have clear, one-to-one communication.  Businesses have legislation and standards like BS8300 to guide them but they sometimes need a bit more support and that’s where we come in.”

A former first team hockey player for Anchorians Hockey Club in Gillingham, Vince now spends his spare time cooking, socialising and spending time with wife Hannah, who also works at Contacta in the Sales Department, and their two children.  His daughter is following in his footsteps and is training to be a chartered accountant.

“It’s a career that’s brought me to Contacta and I feel humbled by what we do,” he adds.  “Every individual here appreciates working for a company that offers real benefit to the public.  What we do isn’t about box-shifting; we genuinely care.”