Meet: Karel van Coller
Technical Support Manager
APAC region
Name – Karel van Coller
Region – APAC
Position – Technical Support Manager
Years of Service – 16 plus year direct and 8 years in South Africa as agent/ distributor
Nationality – Australian, migrated from South Africa 2008
Can you tell us about your current role and responsibilities?
As the Technical Support Manager for APAC, my primary responsibility is to provide robust technical support to the sales team, empowering them to effectively navigate the market and secure our position in the region.
Can you tell us about your journey at Clear Edge?
My journey at Clear Edge began in January 2000, starting with an agent in South Africa. In 2008, I transitioned to Clear Edge Australia, initially working as a sales engineer in Western Australia. Throughout my tenure, I’ve served in diverse capacities, including roles as Regional Manager and Global Mining and Minerals Sector Manager, prior to undertaking my current position.
What is the driving force behind everything you do… what keeps you motivated and driven daily?
What motivates me every day is the opportunity to leave a legacy for years to come by creating a difference for our customers. Also, collaborating with a team of passionate individuals who share a common goal is incredibly inspiring.
What’s something you do to start your workday?
I start my workday by indulging in a cup of coffee, and spend valuable time with my wife, which sets a positive tone for the day ahead.
Tell us about your biggest achievement/proudest moment at Clear Edge to date?
One of my proudest achievements at Clear Edge has been the opportunity to train and mentor new sales team members. Witnessing their growth and success is incredibly rewarding and reinforces the value of investing in others.
Who has been the biggest mentor in your professional career and what was the most important lesson they taught you?
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors who have played significant roles in my professional development. It would be very difficult to mention just one. They’ve emphasized the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, striving for improvement, remaining open to feedback and maintaining a growth mindset.
What advice would you give to new employees joining the organization?
For new employees joining Clear Edge, my advice would be Listen and Learn – Always take some time to listen to your customers and learn from your peers. Take time to learn about our company’s culture and understand why we do, what we do.
If you could sit down for dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
If I could sit down for dinner with anyone, it would be Larry Gies. I’m intrigued by his entrepreneurial journey. I would love to hear more about, how did it all begin, his journey till today, and his vision for the future.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, particularly on camping trips that allow us to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I also value quality time with friends, exploring new dining experiences, and immersing myself in different cultures.
What is one thing that very few people know about you?
Despite my professional role, I consider myself an introvert, finding solace and recharge in quieter moments.
What do you enjoy most about being a technical professional?
What I find most fulfilling about being a technical professional is the opportunity to tackle new challenges head-on and devise innovative solutions. Each day presents a unique set of problems to solve, keeping the role dynamic and engaging.
What industries can Clear Edge help do more to improve our environment?
Clear Edge can make significant contributions to industries such as mining critical minerals, hydrogen production, and mine waste (tailings) treatment. By leveraging our expertise and innovative solutions, we can help these sectors operate more sustainably and responsibly.
Please tell us about a situation where your recommendation helped make the World Safer, Healthier, and More Productive?
One situation where my recommendation made a tangible difference was in proposing a filter cloth design change for a major customer. By streamlining the installation process, we significantly reduced installation time, enhancing safety and productivity for the installation crew. This not only made the work environment safer and healthier but also allowed the filter to return to full functionality more efficiently, benefiting our customer’s operations and the broader community.
