Meet Carey Bands

We interview Carey Bands, member of Johannesburg chapter 2 and GM of Service First GP (Pty) Ltd.

Member Name: Carey Bands

Name of company: Service First GP (Pty) Ltd

Designation in company: General Manager

WPO chapter: Johannesburg 2

Member of WPO since: January 2020

Company industry/sector: HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning) Systems, Services and Building Management systems

Q: Tell us about your company:

A: We are a distributor for a world leading HVAC brand called Trane who's mission is to solve the sustainability challenges for climate change in the heating and cooling industry. We offer our clients these solutions to improve the efficiency of the HVAC systems in their buildings, reduce energy costs and lower their environmental impact.

Q: How has being a WPO member helped your business?

A: I have only attended 2 meetings so far but one thing I’ve learnt is that all these women are exceptional, and I can’t wait to learn from their skills and experience.

Q: What’s your favourite WPO event you’ve attended?

A: The two meetings I’ve attended so far.

Q: What challenges have you faced as a woman in business?

All the men in my business have technical knowledge so it is difficult for me to join conversations sometimes when they are only talking about the way our products are operating. They way woman are seen in general in business that a man is usually the leader of a business, not a woman. So, we must work extra hard to prove we can run things and make good business decisions. Gaining the trust of the older male generation is also hard.

Q: What inspired you to start your business?

A: My father bought the business many years ago and I will become a shareholder and managing director once he retires. He was the inspiration to take it over because I’ve watched his success grow over the last 14 years and I want that for myself.

Q: What advice would you give to other women entrepreneurs?

A: Continually work on self-improvement, learn as much as you can and love what you do.

Q: What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received?

A: Don’t take it personally and never be reactive to a situation.

Q: What's your favourite quote?

A: "If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a Mosquito" - Dalai Lama