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New captain at the helm

After a long process, Norbain SA has a new MD.

After an arduous recruitment process, ex-Westcon Security SA managing director, Jan De Lange, has been appointed by Norbain SA as of 1 February 2012.

Norbain, one of the leading suppliers of CCTV, access control and intruder systems, applied an intense selection strategy in order to ensure a perfect fit.

Jan De Lange

“Three out of four managing directors in the Norbain Group’s subsidiaries have information technology backgrounds. It was paramount that we pared the applicants down to a handful who possess the necessary knowledge and skill to navigate an industry in constant flux,” explains Alun John, chairman of the Norbain SA Board and chief executive of the Norbain Group of Companies. The short-listed candidates then underwent a series of further interviews before the board reached a unanimous decision.

“Our final decision was based on De Lange’s ability to map out a comprehensive plan to keep Norbain at the forefront of the industry’s continued transition from analogue to IP technology,” John remarks. “De Lange has a clear understanding of the unique challenges that we face in the South African security arena and how technology can play a vital role in controlling these difficulties.”

De Lange has been described by his peers and colleagues as an ‘outcomes-driven’, ‘dynamic’, ‘organised and diligent’, ‘astute’ leader with his finger on the pulse of every aspect of the business. He has a reputation for his positive outlook and his strong commitment to building healthy customer relationships.

“This opportunity arose at a time when I had identified the need to pursue new challenges. Norbain SA offers me a myriad of possibilities to add value and build on an already flourishing enterprise,” says De Lange. “The first order of business is to focus on our channel, internal processes and improve efficiencies. I have the benefit of a fresh perspective coupled with a sound familiarity of the security industry.”

The necessity for guidance and education

The company’s new head is a firm supporter of its extensive training programmes. “Norbain SA takes great pride in offering technical advice, hands-on training and support to our channel. Regular training programmes are available both internally and externally, to enhance company competitiveness and overall success by improving and developing the skills of technical employees.”

Norbain SA believes that regular, well-conceived training is a key factor affecting productivity and, ultimately, profitability. It strongly advocates this type of skills development as a method to improve employee morale, motivation and confidence thereby reducing staff turnover, decreasing the need for supervision and fostering healthy employee/employer relationships.

“Our training staff consists of experienced security professionals who train small groups in an atmosphere of dedicated attention. The delegates are equipped with comprehensive training materials that they may use as a valuable reference tool in the workplace,” enthuses De Lange, “through effective training; we are able to keep our customers and partners progressive in a dynamic and fluid environment.”

IP shows steady growth

As the exclusive South African distributor of Vista, IndigoVision, Heitel and Seetec electronic security products, Norbain has adopted a distribution model based on IP-readiness. With a large percentage of their revenue already arising from IP-related business, Norbain aims to aggressively grow this market-offering. They believe that the security industry has the edge when it comes to the shift to IP.

“The unique skills present in the security industry that allow for integration between software and hardware such as biometric readers or surveillance cameras, creates a launchpad for the seamless transition from analogue, which is rapidly becoming dated,” says John.

A valuable alliance

De Lange’s appointment coincides with Norbain SA’s re-establishment of the partnership with Pelco, a Schneider Electric company. Pelco is a strong global brand in the Norbain product portfolio.

Pelco by Schneider is a highly respected supplier to the video security market. Encompassing the design, development and manufacture of an extensive product range, including next-generation video management and software-only solutions, video matrix systems, analogue, high-definition and IP fixed, dome and integrated positioning camera systems, Pelco, like Norbain, prides itself on its pursuit of absolute customer satisfaction.

Pelco boasts what it refers to as its ‘Global Commitment to Excellence’. This mission is best described as a dedication to providing its global customers with competitively priced, innovative video products that are readily available from any location in the world.

From a manufacturing facility located in Clovis, Central California, an expansive array of quality products continues to break new ground in terms of revolutionary technologies and forward thinking concepts.

“Striving to maintain its position as a reliable manufacturer. Pelco by Schneider is a natural fit for Norbain SA,” says John.

“Our technicians have completed the Endura certification, allowing for Norbain to provide qualified product support.”

Endura is a Pelco video management system that provides a complete solution for high capacity video capture, transmission, display and management.

“These are exciting times to be involved in this mercurial industry and I look forward to bringing a wealth of experience and passion to this new endeavour,” De Lange concludes.

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