Claudio De Castro Email and Phone Number

I started in the ironmongery industry when I was at varsity. I was unable to afford a tertiary education and started working for Handlesinc. I worked during the week and went to night and weekend school. I developed a passion for ironmongery and developing the industry. This is where I found my career path and my keen interest in product development. The most exhilarating experience I could ever feel is when I study the market, speak to customers, and then find a gap in the market. Even if the product is unsuccessful, I always see these as learning opportunities that help me for the next project in the pipeline. I have now gained more than ten years of experience as Product Development Manager. I have successfully developed, and growing business opportunities in the ironmongery industry and have a demonstrated ability to define and execute the marketing strategy that underpins key corporate objectives. I am a highly competent product developer and specification writer with practical experience ranging from managing specifications from the beginning with architects to completing with the contractor.CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:After only working for two years at ASSA ABLOY as an architectural specification writer, I was approached internally to apply for a Product Development Manager role. The team saw my skills and knowledge in the ironmongery industry and thought I could best use them in product development and introducing new products into South Africa and Sub-Saharan territories. Education:IMM Diploma in Marketing, Varsity College Sandton, 2012Matric Diploma, De La Salle Holy Cross College, 2008Key Specialties:• Operational Management • New Business Development • Decision Making • Strategic Sales • Channel Marketing