The Team

Our people are the heartbeat of our business, driving innovation, dedication, and customer satisfaction. Their drive and expertise form the foundation of our success. Learn more and connect with our people below.
MEET THE TEAM

Meet Our Passionate Team

Shawn Balstone

Director

Kieren Balstone

Director

+44 (0) 1462 542553
kierenb@vital-electronics.co.uk
Kieren Balstone | LinkedIn

Darren Behan

Finance Director

+44 (0) 1462 654727
darrenb@vital-electronics.co.uk
Darren Behan | Linkedin

David Higginson

Global Business Director

+44 (0) 7947 468523
Davidh@vital-electronics.co.uk
David Higginson | Linkedin

Martin Kingsbury

Business Development Manager

+44 (0) 1462 654857 
martink@vital-electronics.co.uk
Martin Kingsbury | LinkedIn

Natasha Hunt

QA Lead

+44 (0) 1462 542549
natashah@vital-electronics.co.uk
Natasha Hunt | LinkedIn

Joe Kryza

QC Lead

+44 (0) 79489 94434
Joek@vital-electronics.co.uk
Joe Kryza | Linkedin

Joe Chisnall

Global Key Account Manager

+44 (0) 1462 542554
joec@vital-electronics.co.uk
Joe Chisnall | Linkedin

Simon Flecknell

Account Manager

+44 (0) 1462 656622
simonf@vital-electronics.co.uk
Simon Flecknell | Linkedin

Emma Wright

Excess Administrator

Ellie Burgess

Accounting Administrator

+44 (0) 1462 542551
ellieburgess@vital-electronics.co.uk
Ellie Burgess | Linkedin

Ellie Bangert

Sales Support Executive

+44 (0) 1462 654855
ellieb@vital-electronics.co.uk
Ellie Bangert | Linkedin

Max Cartwright-Wells

Excess Manager

+44 (0) 1462 654856
maxw@vital-electronics.co.uk
Max Wells | Linkedin

Alfie Henebery

Excess Co-Ordinator

+44 (0) 1462 656620
alfieh@vital-electronics.co.uk
Alfie Henebery | Linkedin

Charlie Guy

Business Development Executive

+44 (0) 1462 542550
charlieg@vital-electronics.co.uk
Charlie Guy | Linkedin

Luke Sugden

Business Development Executive
amie_32

Amie Cornish

Office administrator

+44 (0) 1462 654727
amiec@vital-electronics.co.uk
Amie Cornish | Linkedin

Mike Shaw

Materials Inspector
andy

Andy Weavers

Quality Inspector

+44 (0) 1462 654727
andyw@vital-electronics.co.uk

Tate Wallace

Business Development Executive
tate_wallace
thackeray

Sandy Thackeray

Business Development Manager

+44 (0) 7789 178661
Sandyt@vital-electronics.co.uk
Sandy Thackeray | Linkedin

Kawal Singh

Country Account Manager

Shawn Balstone

Director

I’ve spent the last 22 years gaining knowledge and experience within the electronic component industry. I’m currently applying this knowledge in my role as Director for Vital Electronics, where I’m responsible for looking after Sales, quality and the day-to-day running of the business.

+44 (0) 1462 654727
shawnb@vital-electronics.co.uk
Shawn Balstone | LinkedIn

Kieren Balstone

DIRECTOR

With an extensive background in the electronics industry, I am an expert in Sales and Sourcing. The experience I have gained has led me to my current role as Director at Vital Electronics, where I am responsible for working with our Sales/Management teams, Customer Relationships and Solutions. Outside of work, I enjoy playing football and travelling.


+44 (0)
1462 654727
kierenb@vital-electronics.co.uk
Kieren Balstone | Linkedin

Darren Behan

Finance Director

I have 20 years of finance and accounting management experience within the Investment management industry across of a diverse range of asset classes and industries.  Working to preserve capital and maximise growth for a wide spectrum of private wealth, institutional and SME businesses. 

I manage accounting, financial reporting, and financial analysis for Vital and am highly experienced in virtually all aspects of finance and accounting management, including financial reporting, budgeting, financial modelling and analysis, business planning, and process improvement.  Outside of work, I am an avid golfer and volunteer with my kids local football team as a coach.

+44 (0) 1462 654727
darrenb@vital-electronics.co.uk
Darren Behan | Linkedin

David Higginson

Global Business Director

I started my career in the industry as a junior account manager 21 years ago. From that position I progressed through various roles including Senior Account Manager, U.K. Country Manager, EU Manager and now Global Director for Sales and Purchasing with Vital.

Throughout my progression I have advanced my knowledge and understanding of markets, industry connectivity and supply chain management, alongside management practise focussing on emotional intelligence, support, and encouragement.

Outside of the industry I have worked as a part time personal trainer and nutritionist for 22 years; owning my own Mixed Martial Arts gym for eight years. In what little spare time I have I enjoy travelling with my family, reading, and cooking.

+44 (0) 7947 468523
Davidh@vital-electronics.co.uk
David Higginson | Linkedin

Martin Kingsbury

Business Development Manager

I have worked in electronic component distribution for more than 35 years. During this time I have held senior sales & marketing director roles with 2 of the worlds largest Global distributors, plus 5 years with one of the worlds leading Global independent distributors. 

I have met a lot of people across Europe and North America from both OEM & CEM companies as well as contacts with many of the industries major electronic component manufacturers. As the industry has continued to change over the years, I have also had a good grounding in many of the supply chain solutions that our customers need to keep their production lines going.

The experience and contact base I have built up over the years will help to further develop business for the team at Vital Electronics, and add value to our customers.

+44 (0) 1462 654857  
martink@vital-electronics.co.uk
Martin Kingsbury | LinkedIn

Natasha Hunt

QA Lead

As a QA Lead, I’m responsible for overseeing Quality Assurance and Quality Control. I’m particularly involved with maintaining the Quality Management System and inbound/outbound inspections, as my primary goal is to gain accreditation for AS9120b.

Since joining Vital Electronics, the most rewarding part has been implementing ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 followed closely by our ERAI membership.

+44 (0) 1462 542549
natashah@vital-electronics.co.uk
Natasha Hunt | LinkedIn

Joe Kryza

QC Lead

As QC Lead, I am responsible for overseeing the operational side of Vital Electronics inspection department. I have many years of inspection experience in various roles but most significantly to this role, I bring 5+ years’ experience in inspection and laboratory testing to AS6081 level mitigation of suspect counterfeit components.

In my future career with Vital, I look forward to continuous development and implementation of quality inspection methods and equipment to further enhance our capabilities and what we can offer to our customers.

+44 (0) 79489 94434
Joek@vital-electronics.co.uk
Joe Kryza | Linkedin

Joe Chisnall

Global Key Account Manager

In August 2022 I began a new chapter providing excess semiconductor solutions to global manufacturing organisations while keeping worldwide production lines running, by solving fulfilment requirements in the most testing time the industry has witnessed.

In my role as Global Key Account Manager at Vital Electronics, I’ll listen to your needs before offering a solution. My approach to customer satisfaction has always been “do what you say you are going to do”. This is supplemented with regular, open and honest communication.

+44 (0) 1462 542554
joec@vital-electronics.co.uk
Joe Chisnall | Linkedin

Simon Flecknell

Account Manager

I’ve spent the last 20 years learning everything there is to know about account management. I’m currently applying this knowledge in my role as Business Manager for Vital Electronics, where I’m responsible for customer requisitions and sourcing enquiries.

As a result of my background, my approach is very methodical and I bring a high level of attention to detail to my work. Outside of work, I am a self-proclaimed professional footballer and father.

+44 (0) 1462 656622
simonf@vital-electronics.co.uk
Simon Flecknell | Linkedin

Emma Wright

Excess Administrator

I graduated in Business and Economics from the University of Hertfordshire in 2019, and since graduating I have gained experience in administration. I’m currently applying this knowledge in my role as an Sales Administrator for Vital Electronics, where I’m responsible for preparing, organising, and storing information for the team.

+44 (0) 1462 542986
emmaw@vital-electronics.co.uk
Emma Wright | Linkedin

Ellie Burgess

Accounting Administrator

As an Accounts Administrator at Vital Electronics, I am responsible for reconciliation of accounts, credit management, purchase ledger activities and support for payroll and VAT. Whilst in my previous role at an accountancy practice as an Accounts Assistant, I trained to be a bookkeeper, becoming qualified in 2020. 

My goal is to further my studies as I continue my journey to become a qualified accountant, currently studying with the AAT. I aim to grow with the company as I become more advanced in my role and look forward to taking on further responsibilities.

+44 (0) 1462 542551
ellieburgess@vital-electronics.co.uk
Ellie Burgess | Linkedin

Ellie Bangert

Sales Support Executive

Over the course of my five year career, I’ve worked for companies such as Knowhow Tech Support Service and Hutchison 3G Enterprises. In January 2022, I took on the Business Development Executive role at Vital Electronics to help improve and grow as a sales representative and individual.

As a Business Development Executive, I’m responsible for overseeing potential new leads globally and keeping on top of progress with existing customers regarding any individual company needs.

+44 (0) 1462 654855
ellieb@vital-electronics.co.uk
Ellie Bangert | Linkedin

Max Wells

Excess Manager

During my time at Vital Electronics I have dedicated my time to learning everything there is to know about the Semiconductor industry. I’m currently applying this knowledge in my role as Excess Manager, where I’m responsible for the buying and selling of our customers excess stock to give them excellent ROI.


+44 (0) 1462 654856

maxw@vital-electronics.co.uk
Max Wells | Linkedin

Alfie Henebery

Excess Co-Ordinator

As Excess Co-ordinator, my task is to streamline operations and enhance collaboration between business units. This is achieved through systemic and creative means; adapting to the ever-changing industry has become a vital element to success during this market period.

Aside from my primary function, I have become nothing less than a local hero for any IT issues. From printers to principles, telepathy to topology – I make sure things are running without a hitch.


+44 (0) 1462 656620

alfieh@vital-electronics.co.uk
Alfie Henebery | Linkedin

Charlie Guy

Business Development Executive

After years of competitive sport, and account management roles within global markets, I take pride in my ability to build long-lasting professional relationships. I love finding solutions within a challenging market, and thrive in assisting innovative businesses streamline their workflow, even through moments of volatility.

Years within FX, Sales and Engineering have also allowed an overview of Project Management – from conception to completion – across a range of Sectors. If, like many of my new clients, you are feeling frustrated with the fragility of your current supply chain, perhaps my team and I can help.

+44 (0) 1462 542550
charlieg@vital-electronics.co.uk
Charlie Guy | Linkedin

Luke Sugden

Business Development Executive

In May, I graduated from the University of Hertfordshire, where I studied a Business Management degree with a year of experience at Oklahoma State University, USA. I am now implementing the skills that I learnt through studying into Vital Electronics, where my role is to generate business through sales.

Outside of work – and throughout my adolescence – I have been a national swimmer, with medals at a British Championship level and some international representations. I have picked up transferrable skills that I can now implement into my career such as, thriving in a team environment, organisational management and priority allocation. These are all skills that are transferrable and have carried me through years of studying into what is now the early beginnings of my career at Vital.

+44 (0) 1462 542552
lukes@vital-electronics.co.uk
Luke Sugden | Linkedin

amie_32

Amie Cornish

Office administrator

Since gaining my CIPD qualification, I have refined my skills in efficient organisation, meticulous record-keeping, and effective communication. Through performing administrative tasks, I have learnt how important processes can be to ensure everything is running smoothly.

My administrative duties at Vital Electronics range from record-keeping, office supply management and providing valuable assistance when needed. I intend on producing quality work and applying communication skills to fully support Vital Electronics as an Office Administrator.


+44 (0) 1462 654727

Amiec@vital-electronics.co.uk
Amie Cornish | Linkedin

Mike Shaw

Materials Inspector

Throughout my time at Vital, I have consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to optimising warehouse efficiency and maintaining a safe, organized, and productive work environment. My expertise in inventory management and logistics coordination has been instrumental in ensuring the seamless flow of goods within the warehouse.

I am adept at utilising warehouse management systems and technology to enhance accuracy and streamline processes. As a warehouse professional, I am dedicated to contributing my skills and expertise to drive operational excellence and support for Vital Electronics.


+44 (0) 1462 654727

mikes@vital-electronics.co.uk
Mike Shaw | Linkedin

andy

Andy Weavers

Quality Inspector

I have come from an electronic automation background where I was responsible for the quality inspections on all incoming bespoke parts and components by checking them to specifications and technical drawings. I was also identifying and rectifying any errors within the build of materials to prevent any errors in the production process.

I have transferred many of those skills to my role here at vital electronics, and I really enjoy the satisfaction of identifying and stopping counterfeit parts getting back out in the market. We can assure our customers they are getting exactly what they need. A service many of our competitors simply cannot offer.


+44 (0) 1462 654727

andyw@vital-electronics.co.uk
Andy Weavers | Linkedin

tate_wallace

Tate Wallace

Business Development Executive

With a solid foundation in customer service and a new passion for transforming customer interactions into meaningful relationships, I’ve honed the art of delivering not just components, but great business impressions! The challenging market for electronic components has not only honed my resilience, but also allowed me to learn different skills to keep me ahead!

My passion lies in creating remarkable customer experiences and building long-term partnerships within the Electronic sector. I look forward to collaborating on your new projects!

Off the clock, you’ll catch me over the golf course, and if I’m not there I’m occasionally sweating it out at the gym. Like I’ve seen in my new role consistency and growth are key.


+44 (0) 1462 542589

tatew@vital-electronics.co.uk
Tate Wallace | Linkedin

thackeray

Sandy Thackeray

Business Development Manager

I have 47 years experience in the electronics market, 38 years of that in senior roles with the two largest Globaldistributors. During this time I have developed extensive product knowledge and a network of contacts acrossall market sectors. I also have experience in developing logistics solutions to deliver cost reductions and flexibleservice models to meet individual customer requirements.

I am responsible for servicing customers in Scotland and North East England.


+44 (0) 7789 178661

sandyt@vital-electronics.co.uk
Sandy Thackeray | Linkedin

Kawal Singh

Country Account Manager

I am a recognised persuasive communicator and consultative sales expert with 9+ years’ experience in selling. My expertise spans across Semiconductors, IT, Automobile, and Real Estate, reflecting a diverse skill set. I prioritise a customer-centric approach and excel in delivering effective business solutions. Outside of work I enjoy playing Cricket and Travelling.

+91 96858 69236
k-singh@vital-electronics.co.uk
Kawal Singh | Linkedin