Meet Databuild’s new fixer

Kate Sithole (AKA The Fixer)

With only 24 hours in a day at their disposal, the various role players in the construction industry are finding it increasingly difficult to keep abreast of new products and technologies, look for new opportunities and do more with less while keeping their businesses running.

Enter Kate Sithole, newly appointed Fixer at Databuild who has been tasked to head up the company’s newly launched three-pronged service offering, which is specifically geared to helping clients resolve these challenges.

“A fixer is someone who solves problems and gets things done, and that’s exactly what my job at Databuild entails,” she explains. “From architects, engineers, suppliers and manufacturers, to contractors and sub-contractors – everyone is constantly on the lookout for innovative ways to generate new business. This is where BuildConnect, CPDConnect and ShowcaseConnect come in.

“As the knowledge hub for the construction and allied industries, Databuild has access to the latest products on the market, and is well placed to help suppliers bring them to the attention of the right specifiers. We do this through BuildConnect, an appointment service that brings specifiers and suppliers together in a mutually beneficial association.”

CPDConnect is a series of hosted events where a range of the latest technologies on the market will be exhibited, Sithole continues. “Consultants will be able to earn valuable CPD points through learning activities that enhance industry skills and knowledge, while networking with their associates in a relaxed and informal environment.”

Finally, there is ShowcaseConnect which, says Sithole, is the ideal platform for specifiers to keep up with the latest and best innovations on the market. “It comprises a range of products sourced by Databuild which are currently not available in South Africa. These will be showcased to specifiers at mini-expos and boutique exhibition events hosted at their practices.”

Sithole is no newcomer to Databuild, having previously worked for the company as a sales executive. “What I loved about my job back then was that it gave me a bird’s eye view of the construction industry and I learned much about the inner workings of this multifaceted environment.”

Sithole also worked as a specifier to architects for leading product manufacturers such as Tyl-Pro and QS Doorware. The extensive professional network she developed during this time will stand her in good stead in her new fixer role, she believes.

Sithole is bullish about the future of the construction industry. “There are signs that it is slowly starting to emerge from its slump and Databuild is perfectly positioned to help all stakeholders generate new business and thus stimulate real growth in the industry.”