We’re shining a spotlight on a key member of the Kingfisher family Project Design Manager, Paul Yates. As one of the longest serving employees, Paul has seen the growth and development of Kingfisher Lighting to what we know today.

His role as the head of the Lighting Design department sees Paul responsible for a fundamental part of the project process, ensuring all guidance, standards and regulation are met alongside best practice with lighting design. As well as this Paul is responsible for the production of our 3D visualisation and VR offerings that bring designs to life for our client base.

What is your job title? Projects Design Manager

How long have you worked at Kingfisher Lighting? 26 years

Have you ever had a different role within Kingfisher Lighting? Yes, when I first started at Kingfisher, I oversaw Purchase Invoicing, but we soon discovered my talents were better placed elsewhere...

What does your current job role entail? I manage the team of lighting designers ensuring they’re keeping updated with all standards and regulations whilst producing high quality and efficient solutions. In addition to this, I also produce hyper realistic 3D renders for large projects such as Central Square as well as for new products.

As a member of the Product Team, I have involvement in new product development and ensure that every product we produce performs to the highest standard.

What is your greatest professional achievement to date at Kingfisher?

I actually have two. So, first would be completing the industry recognised and highly valued LET Lighting Design course. The second would be becoming a Light Monger and gaining the freedom of the City of London. 

What are the values that drive you? Quality, accuracy, professionalism, and reliability.

Give us a fun fact about yourself? The first one has to be that I have been at Kingfisher longer than some of my team have been alive!

The second is that I’ve gained my 1^st Dan blackbelt in Taekwondo and I’m currently working towards my 2^nd Dan.

What’s the most interesting thing you can see out your window? My car as well as a healthy stock of lighting columns.

Favourite Quote – Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.

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