Industry insight from Martin Engineering’s new Australian Managing Director

Martin Engineering, one of the global leaders in belt conveyor and bulk material flow technology, announced the hiring of Darren Gilbert as Managing Director of the Australian Business unit. A native of Newcastle/Australia, Darren Gilbert brings a combination of international experience, extensive industry knowledge, and an understanding of Australia’s bulk handling market and its people.

Darren Gilbert, Managing Director, Martin Engineering Australia
© Martin Engineering

This key appointment follows a major expansion of Martin Engineering’s operations in Australia, which includes establishing two manufacturing facilities. One location is in Yatala in the east, and a pending location is in Perth in the west, with plans to expand field teams in both areas. Darren Gilbert will help ensure that Martin’s best-in-class standards for products and services are delivered to customers consistently as per the company’s Absolutely No Excuses, Problem Solved Guarantee.

Over the past 30+ years, Darren Gilbert has worked for German, Australian, and Chinese companies with a significant global presence, such as Rema Tip Top, VLI, and Continental. Recently, he led divisions in China and India, mainly focusing on selling conveyor components and establishing service teams.

We asked him to offer some insights into the Australian market, the future of bulk handling on the continent, and the obstacles bulk handlers face across mining, quarries, cement, ports, agriculture, and sugar.

  The Martin Engineering team in Yatala/Australia
© Martin Engineering

Insights into the Australian bulk handling market

What is are some things about the Australian bulk handling market that stands out from others you’ve worked in?

Darren Gilbert: The main standout is the ongoing need for production efficiency, driving significant advancements in automation and AI technology. All material handling sectors in Australia face unique challenges, such as our regulatory environment and commodity diversity. Martin is committed to innovation and ensuring all our sites implement efficient and safe systems of work by fostering a genuine culture of care.

 

What was one thing you learned working outside of Australia that will benefit Martin’s operations and customers in the Australian market?

Darren Gilbert: I’ve learned the importance of providing a complete solution to improve operational performance instead of just quick fixes or band-aids without follow-up. Our value proposition focuses on efficiency, safety, superior engineering, and understanding how each component interacts within the entire system. I’m excited to bring this detail-oriented approach to customers across Australia

  Martin employees safely install an air cannon flow solution on a transfer chute with regular clogging issues
© Martin Engineering

You have deep insight into several facets of industrial equipment manufacturing. What are your overall goals for Martin’s future in Australia?

Darren Gilbert: The goal is to introduce and educate both current and prospective customers about the benefits our professional service teams provide in each location. We intend to emphasize how we can enhance the product and service touchpoints throughout the life cycle of each system. Our premium engineering reporting and analytics will significantly add to our value proposition and enable our customers to remain competitive.

 

Thoughts on the future and workplace safety

What have you seen as a growing trend/issue in belt conveyor bulk handling?

Darren Gilbert: The shortage of skilled labour to install and service components properly is a significant problem. Customers want to reduce risk by limiting the number of contractors providing product and service support onsite. As a result, the expectation is to install and maintain your product range quickly and efficiently. Martin has a global team of experts and comprehensive training programs through the Foundations™ books, courses, and online Learning Center, which we use for internal staff and offer to customers around the world. These ensure our teams deliver the outcomes customers expect in a proficient and safe manner, as well as enhancing the knowledge and training of customers’ staff.

  Martin provides on-site in-person training, as well as the largest free online conveyor training platform in the industry
© Martin Engineering

One of the core principles on which Martin was founded is safety. How has workplace and equipment safety influenced your career?

Darren Gilbert: Walking onto a jobsite, the correct safe work attitude is revealed to me by how the work area and environment are maintained. When I discuss tasks and the employees’ understanding of the procedures, risks, and control measures, I discover their competency. Martin Foundations™ training helps drive change, ensuring proper installation and maintenance, and ultimately celebrating the success of safe outcomes as a team.

A safe workplace is not an option, it’s essential. It’s everyone's responsibility to ensure both our own safety and that of others. Recognizing and managing risk is fundamental to our approach. As leaders, we must promote education, ensure compliance, and foster belief in our safety systems. I’ve witnessed how poor safety can impact individuals and businesses, as well as the excitement and motivation when everyone is committed. That’s why I’m so passionate about it.

 

You’ll be visiting numerous sites and meeting a lot of new customers. Please offer any personal thoughts or insights about yourself that you feel might help introduce you to them before you meet them in person.

Darren Gilbert: Being approachable and solution-oriented has helped me build long-lasting relationships worldwide. My approach is holistic, providing customers with results that ensure their operations are cleaner, safer, and more productive. Building enduring relationships with customers and anticipating their needs are strengths I highly value.

 

Conclusion

The Australian market has enjoyed Martin Engineering products since 1978. After establishing an office in 2017, it has grown to become the country’s top bulk-handling service and solutions provider. Using a “factory direct” model, customers receive reliable product fulfillment, faster response times, and hands-on service from local experts. By adding Darren Gilbert to the Martin Engineering team, the company is confident that its stellar reputation for superior solutions will thrive and grow.

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