Posted on January 31st, 2025

How Tom Barath turned a couple years of sales experience into an 18-year adventure around the world by working hard and working smart. 

In 2007, Victaulic’s Data Centre Business Development Manager, Tom Barath, interviewed for an Account Manager position at Victaulic with just two years of sales experience at a financial services firm and a ton of ambition. Even though Tom was still early in his career, he knew what he wanted and that was to find a company where he could prove himself and grow, sell products he believed in, and make a difference with customers. Since Victaulic had an impressive stature as a global leader in the mechanical pipe-joining solutions industry, Tom saw a potential career path that promised not just a job but a journey. Little did he know this journey would take him around the globe and deeply transform his professional life.

The Perfect Fit

Tom’s initial meeting with Victaulic was more than just a job interview; it was a moment where everything clicked

“There was just something about Victaulic,” Tom recalls. “I had a feeling straightaway that this was a company I could build my career and life with. The people were all genuine individuals who had great energy about them and seemed to enjoy what they were doing. After a few interviews, it just felt right.”  

The honesty during the interview about the hard work required and the growth potential made it clear that Victaulic was no ordinary company. This was a place where effort and ambition would be rewarded with real opportunities. Tom’s decision to join Victaulic was not just about a new role; it was about stepping into a community that valued dedication and growth.  

A Career of Endless Possibilities

From that moment on, Tom embarked on an extraordinary adventure at the company. Over the past 18 years, he has worn many hats—from Sales Account Manager to Engineering and Hydronic Balancing Specialist, Business Development Manager, Regional Sales Manager and, most recently, Data Centre Business Development Manager.   

But Tom’s story is also one of exploration and personal growth. Born and raised in Canada, Tom’s career with Victaulic began in Toronto, but it didn’t stay there for very long. Once he expressed interest in relocating, Victaulic gave him plenty of opportunities to do so. In his first 10 years at the company, Tom moved four times to different parts of Canada, taking on broader and different responsibilities each time. Then, he got the exciting call to move across the Atlantic to Northern England in 2017, then five years later, to Sydney, Australia, and most recently back to Northern England where he currently resides.  

“Moving is always challenging,” Tom admits, “but Victaulic supports you through the entire process. The fact that the company is so willing to invest in people and give them the chance to grow their careers in different places around the world is very exciting for both career and personal growth. It’s a great benefit that Victaulic offers.”  

But Tom is quick to add that this doesn’t have to be the path for everyone. “Some people may not want to move, and that’s OK. We have a lot of great people who are happy doing the great job they are doing every single day and making a difference in that role. Victaulic invests in us either way.”

The Days Are All Different, but the Goal Is Always the Same

So, what’s it like to work in sales at Victaulic? For Tom, every day is different, but the goal remains consistent: to bring solutions to customers that help them enhance productivity and reduce risks.  

“It’s not a cookie-cutter job,” Tom explains. “You create your role, and that flexibility is something I love. Whether working from my office or visiting job sites and customer offices, the focus is always on building relationships and providing value.”  

Tom spends significant time educating customers, whether it’s virtually from his office or on jobsites. While he appreciates the ability to use technology to connect with people from different parts of the globe, he believes relationships are best built in person.  

Tom also spends a significant portion of his days working with internal teams to ensure Victaulic gets products to customers in a high-quality and timely manner. He says the level of dedication to customers is felt throughout the organization. “From the executive team to all levels, we share the same goal. I always feel I have the support I need. I’m never left on my own.”   

That feeling of support extends well beyond serving customers. “We have that family-like feeling here, where everyone is invested in each other’s success. People care about you.”

If you’re interested in reading more employee stories, check out our blog. And if you are ready to start or grow your career, check out our Careers Page and our  Open Positions.