Chris Quinn, commercial director at Usave Power, joins the podcast to share his journey from humble beginnings in sales at 16 to leading commercial teams across the water industry. Chris reveals how confidence, resilience, and personal growth became the foundation for nearly three decades of high performance and transformative leadership.

In this conversation, we dive into the world of sales and high performance, from industry pet peeves and breakthroughs, to the power of real-life experience over formal education, and why self-belief trumps technique when you’re just starting out.

Chris shares his journey from leaving school at 16 and ‘falling into’ sales, to becoming a commercial director, the lessons learned from early face-to-face roles, and how personal growth and mentorship transformed both his career and leadership style.

You’ll walk away with practical advice for new sales professionals, insights into balancing confidence and development, and the mindset shift needed to move from solo high performer to selfless leader. Plus, the evergreen secrets to building teams that blend experience, energy, and future potential.

KEY TOPICS

1. Falling into sales as a teenager and the unexpected leap from Maryhill to the water industry [00:02:22]
2. The lost art and value of face-to-face confidence in a digital-first generation [00:06:47]
3. Why self-belief and charisma matter more than product knowledge for sales rookies [00:10:44]
4. The crucial inflection point: deregulation, accountability, and learning to "love the numbers" [00:14:00]
5. Hard work over intellect: why outworking everyone (with a smile) remains evergreen advice [00:33:34]

GUEST BIO & LINKS

Chris Quinn is the commercial director at Usave Power and a veteran leader in the water industry with over 26 years’ experience. Starting his career at 16 after leaving school, Chris quickly found his place in sales, learning the ropes through grit, self-belief, and an unrelenting work ethic. Over the years, he has developed and led high-performing teams, guided by a passion for coaching young talent and a belief in continual development. Chris balances his professional drive with candid reflections on family life, leadership, and the evolving nature of high performance in sales.

Connect with Chris Quinn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-quinn-28941b16/

Connect with Ross:

Website: https://www.rossjohnpenman.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ross-john-penman/

Email: contact@rossjohnpenman.com

Subscribe to The Converted Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.