Without our team members we simply couldn’t deliver the high levels of service and support that we pride ourselves on, and that our clients expect. Frank Elias, a critical member of our Detailing team and business who has an extraordinary background, bringing a wealth and breadth of knowledge to our business.
How long have you been with DBM?
I joined DBM in 2017 on a casual basis and have been fulltime now for a couple years.
Where are you from?
I was born in Slovakia in Europe and moved to Australia 5 years ago.
Why did you choose to move to Australia?
My uncle and cousins live here so I thought I’d come for a holiday to visit them, I never went home. I just love the people, the weather, the environment and the food.
Tell us a little about your background.
I grew in Slovakia in Eastern Europe, after School I studied Engineering and Metallurgy at University and then became a Tax Consultant with PWC. I really enjoyed what I learned around the importance of product quality and integrated operations during my studies but it was ultimately the soft skills I could learn at PWC that led me into that role.
When I decided to stay in Australia I got a job with Village Roadshow where I was a Lifeguard and Aquatic Skills Coach. I learnt a lot about morning safety checks, daily practice of different types of drills and plenty of training that I can apply to my role today.
Have you done much boating?
Not really, Slovakia is an inland country so boating wasn’t really a pastime that anyone ever did.
What do you enjoy most about your role at DBM?
I really enjoy everything about my role, from hands on with the tools to also assisting with systems and process, policy checks, OHS training and risk assessment, it means I can apply a lot of what I learned at Uni and in the workforce. I originally started on the tools but I now spend a lot of time training and managing the team.
What has been the highlight of your role to date?
I have really enjoyed working at heights and developing OHS and policies and safety training to ensure the safety of not only our team members but for those we work with too. We’ve been working with the manufacturers to establish some changes and additions to their products that will allow for additional harness points, protecting workers down the track and limiting risks for owners, manufacturers and contractors.
I have also enjoyed working with Riviera through the various stages of development of their boats. We don’t just do the final wash and detail, we’re involved in a number of stages in the production line, which is great.
What do you do when you’re not working?
I really enjoy bushwalking and camping, there are some beautiful tracks and walks all around the Hinterland. O’Reillys and Girraween are my favourites.
