Whelen’s International Sales Meeting: Strengthening Bonds, Driving Growth

We recently had the pleasure of hosting our international sales meeting at the MGM Springfield in Springfield, Massachusetts. Representatives from over 30 countries* joined us for a week of collaboration, learning, and relationship-building. The event highlighted our ongoing commitment to innovation and global growth, offering attendees a comprehensive view of new products, strategic developments, and our company culture.  

Key Objectives: Showcasing Whelen’s Capabilities and Culture 

The primary goals of this meeting were threefold: 

• To introduce attendees to our two facilities in Chester, Connecticut, and Charlestown, New Hampshire 

• To present new products and strategies 

• To foster collaboration among international representatives 

Director of International Sales Kelly Kyriakos emphasized the value of these objectives, particularly the first, stating, “It was important to show both of our facilities to customers, as many of them had never seen what we do, how we do it, and the great, great people who make it all happen. Multiple attendees mentioned how friendly all the Whelen people were during the tours. Their passion for the company came through in everything they said and did.” 

The weeklong event encouraged interaction among international reps and Whelen team members, reinforcing our commitment to strong partnerships. Kyriakos noted, “The face-to-face contact was invaluable. The time that Whelen people spent with our guests during meals, tours, and presentations will pay dividends in the future.” This personal approach resonated with attendees, fostering both professional and personal connections. 

Informative Sessions and Facility Tours 

The sales meeting was a day-long event that began with a general assembly featuring presentations focusing on product and technology updates, customer success stories, and strategic insights. Attendees heard from several key Whelen executives, including President and CEO Geoff Marsh, VP of Sales Greg Scott, Senior Director of Operations Jacob Chamberlain, Senior Vice President of Technology and Innovation James Whelen, Vice President of Engineering Gavin Shepherdson, and Director of Marketing Sarah Guertin.  Each speaker offered unique insights into our strategic direction, product development, and commitment to customer success. Tom Ellison, International Sales Manager, reflected on the impressive meeting agenda: “We got a firsthand look at what the near future will bring, both with existing products and upcoming innovations.” 

As the general assembly concluded, high-performing sales representatives and distributors were presented with awards, celebrating their dedication, success, and unwavering spirit.  

Following the general assembly, attendees joined four rotating breakout sessions, giving them a closer look at product development, marketing, and more while also allowing them to have their questions answered by our industry experts. Ellison was particularly impressed by breakout presentations led by Product Managers Jon Sestrom and Kevin McDougall, saying, “Their presentations on new and existing products were incredible and highlighted Whelen’s creativity and innovation. It’s what we do best!”  

Throughout the week, attendees also participated in tours of our two facilities, gaining an in-depth look at our production and development processes. “Our international reps saw the hard work we’ve been putting into developing innovative products tailored specifically for their markets,” said Ellison. “I could sense a renewed excitement as they toured the facilities and participated in the meetings, eager to apply what they learned.” 

Carrying Our Culture of Care and Innovation into the Future 

One of the most valued aspects of the experience was our family-oriented culture, a sentiment echoed by many of our international guests. Reflecting on this, Kelly Kyriakos noted, “What stood out was how much our international customers recognized the family culture that Whelen brings to everything we do. They felt genuinely cared for, not just as customers, but as people.” This commitment to building meaningful relationships remains at the heart of our success both domestically and internationally. 

The week’s events not only reaffirmed our commitment to collaboration and innovation but also strengthened the bonds that drive our global growth. Representatives, distributors, and Whelen staff alike came together with a shared dedication and left with a renewed drive to push forward in our collective mission. President and CEO Geoff Marsh reflected on the overwhelming success of the event, saying, “I am honored to be part of this team of international reps and distributors. Their energy and passion for the emergency warning industry were exciting to be part of. Despite the different countries and languages represented, it was clear that we all share a mission of serving those who protect and serve others from around the globe.”  

This sense of unity ensures that Whelen’s legacy of excellence will continue to flourish worldwide. 

 

*Countries represented at this international sales meeting: 

Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Italy, Kuwait, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Panama, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and United States