The Ben Barker interview

We chat to Ben Barker, Marketing Executive of Pathfinder, to discuss the park industry, his role in it, and what he likes to do when not working.

Hi Ben, tell me about your current role at Pathfinder Homes.

My current role is Marketing Executive here at Pathfinder Homes. Where I am tasked with running, creating and managing all marketing activities for the company.

Of all the things in the industry, what is your favourite thing you like to do?

My favourite thing to do is to visit parks, where I get to meet the owners and photograph our luxury homes/lodges on their stunning parks. I think it’s the best way to build relationships and most importantly find out what the customer wants and needs.

Any predictions for the industry in the next 24 months and what are your plans?

After the last few years, I think it’s hard to predict anything. I do think though that the staycation market has been able to build a strong enough reputation to keep flourishing. With rising costs and mortgages, I believe the park home market will offer an affordable and strong alternative to brick-and-mortar living.
However, I think I speak for everyone here at Pathfinder Homes when I say we’ve got some very exciting things to come… so make sure you stay tuned!

If you weren’t doing what you do, what would you be doing?

I was actually planning to move to Canada and try to get a work visa. However, thought it would be best to pursue my marketing career and build on my experience. I was lucky enough to still have several adventures with holidays to North America and Europe this year, giving me the best of both worlds. Never say never, maybe even a Pathfinder Homes Canadian branch.

What do you like to do when not working? Any hobbies?

In my spare time, I play Rugby for a local side here in Devon. In summer a keen hobby of mine to go on hikes and shoot 35mm photography to try to capture new places (the best I can). I also love meeting up and seeing my friends as much as possible.

What has been your favourite professional moment?

My favourite professional moment was preparing and attending both Royal Cornwall show and The World of Park and leisure homes. The preparation was great, getting to be able to design content and the theme for our stands. But being able to meet and speak with both customers and people in the industry I felt was the best way to fully understand the market.

Which clients would you love to help?

I am currently driving and looking at how we can help our park and resort clients. I have been visiting a number with the sales team to build relationships and look at how we can improve the whole service that we offer. We are proud of the parks we work with and have been offering marketing support to these customers as well. Unfortunately, there are so many parks we work with we can’t get to see them all.

Who in our series would you like to be seen interviewed?

It would be great to hear from Kevin McCloud and find out his opinion on our industry. The comparison between our homes/lodges and traditional brick-and-mortar homes. As well as his expert opinion in both interior and architecture, it would be great to be able to hear his opinion on the homes in the market.

To read the Matthew Gibbs, owner of Clear View Park Home Surveyors interview, click here.