Kevin S. Cross, Leybold Optics USA
Cross
Kevin S. Cross was recently named the U.S. manager for ophthalmic sales and marketing for Leybold Optics USA. Cross has more than 15 years of experience in sales and marketing, more than six of which have been in the optical industry. Here, he talks about the demands of a job that requires a lot of travel.
Vital Stats
Residence: Worcester
Family: Wife, Erica Cross (Martini)
Education: North High School ('91); Attended Westfield State College
Previous job: Business Development, Carl Zeiss Vision Inc.
Start date: June 1, 2009
Q. How are you settling in at your new office?
Well, as the head of our sales and marketing team for the ophthalmic (eye care) division, my "office" has been a window seat on a plane or the car. I've been traveling all over the United States meeting our customers, prospects and strategic partners as well as some vendors. I feel somewhat settled already as the team at Leybold has made me feel incredibly welcome right from the start.
Q. What's the biggest surprise you've had in starting the job?
The number one surprise has been how welcome I am made to feel by all the customers and prospects of Leybold - they have really opened up and let me jump right in. They are sharing what they like, don't like, things they would like to see and all kinds of quality ideas.
Q. What challenges do you see in your new position?
The challenges will be to hold firm on our current price structure - as a German-based manufacturer of thin film coating equipment, we have lots of associated costs that are related to energy, precious metals and commodities. I expect to be challenged to find ways or alternatives to avoid passing costs along to the consumer.
Q. How different is this job from your previous position?
This position is a leadership position within a global, international company, so I have a lot more responsibility than I had in previous positions. When it comes to sales and marketing for the US Ophthalmic Division at Leybold - the buck stops with me.
Q. How close is this to what you imagined in high school you'd end up doing?
Not close at all - I thought I might go into law or politics.
Q. Where's the best place to get lunch near your new location?
In Cary, N.C. where our U.S. headquarters is located, there are some great barbecue restaurants. I'm trying to test them all before I pick a favorite, which is very tough so far! In Worcester, when I'm working from home, there is no place like Dell'Ovo's Kitchen on Shrewsbury Street - the best lunch in Worcester!
Q. What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
I hope to be in the same industry with the same company and playing a role in helping shape our organizations' future while raising a wonderful family with my wife Erica.
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