Meet the team: Steve steps up

If there’s one thing that’s true of our industry, it’s that things never stay the same for the long. There is always new equipment and new opportunities on the horizon. Staying focused on the ever-changing path to this horizon is vital. Thankfully we’ve had plenty of experience, expertise, and passion at the head of the family business to guide us along. 

Steve McLean will tell you he’s “always been a salesman at heart”. There’s nothing he loves more than getting out and chatting with our customers, digging deep into what they need, and then doing everything he can to deliver the goods. And, as Steve’s three sons will tell you, he isn’t exactly slowing up as he steps into his 60s. He’s just as passionate now as when he first started out all those years ago. 

We sat down to chat about the big picture with the Earthworm founder. 

How did Earthworm start? 

I had a vision for my three boys, with the setting up of three separate businesses for each. There was initially going to be the attachments, the machine sales, and the hire. However, after taking on Auger Torque 2007 and DEMCO in 2009, we realised the attachments side of had huge potential for helping New Zealand businesses – and growth for our business. 

What does a typical day look like in your job?

It changes considerably! As I’ve stepped into more of guidance role there’s also been the need to step in and help out when and where I’m needed. While the business is in good hands with the boys, there’s also plenty to do! I’ve just got back from a few weeks on the road, which has been incredibly helpful for understanding the needs of our customers and how we can best meet these needs. 

What are the highlights of your work? 

On an everyday basis, it’s speaking with our customers and staff – making that connection and ensuring they’re happy. I’m a salesman at heart, and getting around and sorting out stuff is always something I look forward to. The big picture? It’s watching the boys grow and step up into the work. They each bring so much to their roles, and they’re supported by a truly great team.

And the challenges? 

In recent times a big challenge has been working through the sale of the ASV and Case distribution part of the business and doing everything we could at the time to ensure the staff that were leaving had a place to go to. Over the last two years the economic climate and uncertainty has definitely impacted things, but there’s a real sense that things are improving that the future is looking better.

What’s important to get right in your work?

At a management level, building an open and trusting culture is vital. We lead by example, but we don’t necessarily dictate exactly how everyone should work here. We value our team using their initiative, thinking for themselves and making sure it’s right. It’s paid off for sure – we’ve got a really positive team.

It’s also important to stay in front of what people need. So being proactive is a big part of the work. I really appreciate the chance to get out and talk to our customers and the dealers. 

I also think you need put in the planning for the future. We invested a huge amount in our stock, so Earthworm can respond quickly when people need something. When you’re dealing with four to six months lead times for bringing some equipment to New Zealand, having the supply ready to go is vital. 

How did your career experience shape what you today?

Long term my career path has always been progressing to where I could have my own businesses, and then to where I could provide for my boys.

I’ve been lucky to learn a lot from the people around me over the years. I did my apprenticeship at Cable Price, first working on Hitachi and then fixing and selling John Deere. From there the work changed to buying and selling used trucks. I took over the business and expanded the range, selling ASV Posi-Tracks and then in 2014 taking on the distribution for Case Construction in NZ branching out. 

The experience here is helpful, particularly when it comes to talking with dealers. I’ve owned a similar business to theirs in the past, so have the empathy and insight for how to help.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? What do you love doing in the weekends?

The biggest thing for me is to spend time with my family. With seven grandkids living nearby, ranging from 15 years-old down, the weekends are always busy!

What are you looking forward to in the future? 

We’ve been in business for 21 years this September and I’m at that stage where, while I’m enjoying the work, I’m also looking forward to contributing in other ways. Spending more time with the family is always a priority. But I also really enjoy helping others in the community and other businesses. You learn so much by getting involved with others. Quite simply, I just enjoy helping people.