Thomas Cook has been active in the security industry for 35 years. He has been Hanwha Techwin’s Senior Vice President of Sales for North America since March 2017, and held the position of Vice President of Sales for North America for 5 years. He has led the Hanwha Techwin America Company to be one of the premier video companies in North America. Previously he ran sales in North America for Vicon and Panasonic Video. Cook started in the security industry as a software design engineer and has a degree in Electrical Engineering. SourceSecurity.com Editor Larry Anderson spoke to Thomas to find out more.
How did you come to work in the security industry?
I started as an intern at Mosler and while I was accepted for a position in one department, they placed me in another when I came on board. This new position entailed designing film camera interface boards for banking systems and this was the start of my security career. From there I went into product management, eventually I moved into product marketing and then sales management.
What is the best professional advice you have received?
My first manager, Marty Meyer, told me when to keep emotion out of everything you do at work; especially when you are negotiating and presenting your side or case.
What's something few people know about you?
I have been collecting beer cans most of my life and have quite a collection with cans from the 80s, like Billy Beer (President Carter’s brother Billy Carter), Robin Hood Ale, and many more.
What's the most rewarding thing about what you do for a living?
Being able to hire and develop a team of people and mentor and grow their career and see them blossom. I believe as a leader you are only as good as the team that you lead and the talent you surround yourself with.
| Thomas Cook recommends Ambergris Caye, a remote Island off the coast of Belize |
What are your interests, hobbies and passions outside security?
In my spare time, I design and build decks, cabinets, sheds, hardscape walls, fire pits, etc. Being a design engineer I go back to my roots and enjoy creating, the process of building and finally seeing the final product.
Where was your last vacation? Would you recommend it to others and why?
In December 2016, we rented a house beachfront on Amberis Key Island off the coast of Belize. It was remote, where there was no access to roads except with golf carts, and quiet. My family enjoyed the relaxation and stunning beach, weather and area. I would recommend it if you just want to have a true vacation to unplug and relax.