Meet David Novell, Project Manager for our new Spanish service and training centre

Keeler has officially launched a new state-of-the-art service and training facility in Barcelona, broadening its support offering to EU customers. We caught up with one of the Project Managers, David Novell to get some further insights on this exciting new development.

What are your aspirations for the project?

As one of the project managers, my aspirations for the project’s outcome are centred on achieving a seamlessly operational and sustainable facility in Spain. We aim for the successful integration of cutting-edge cryo and ultrasound services, ensuring that the facility becomes a benchmark for advanced eye care. Additionally, I anticipate the training centre for distributors to contribute to a skilled and knowledgeable network, fostering long-term partnerships. Overall, our goal is to establish a facility that not only meets but exceeds industry standards, positively impacting both the local community and the broader field of eye care.

What service solutions will this new facility offer?

The new facility in Spain will provide comprehensive services, including repair and calibration, specifically tailored for our cryo and ultrasound product families. These services align seamlessly with Keeler’s enduring dedication to innovation in eye care. Our focus is on delivering professional, agile, and rapid responses to our customers’ needs, ensuring the highest quality of service.

What training programs will be available? How will these support Keeler’s distributor network?

We’ve created a dedicated training area with two distinct spaces: one for theoretical and educational aspects (a meeting room) and another equipped with Keeler devices for practical training. Our Territory Managers in Europe will be responsible for program details and will use these facilities to provide crucial training to both Distributors and End Customers.
These training sessions can serve various purposes, including refresher courses on device usage or presentations on new products for both distributors and customers. This approach promotes closeness, strengthening relationships, and enhancing their understanding of our products. The inclusive training format aims to improve the skills and knowledge of our network while encouraging collaborative learning and engagement. The flexible space is fully equipped with Keeler’s portfolio of medical devices and presentation equipment.

How will the facility leverage cutting-edge technologies to ensure the highest standards for servicing and training?

As a direct extension of Keeler Ltd., the new facility is aligned with the same objectives of quality and customer satisfaction. We prioritise excellence by incorporating cutting-edge cryo and ultrasound technologies into our services, guaranteeing the highest standards of care. These technologies, developed by our main company, are smoothly integrated, enhancing precision and efficiency in diagnostic and treatment procedures. This reflects our dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in eye care.
Additionally, these technologies are a vital component of our distributor training programs. Distributors undergo training in the latest advancements to effectively showcase and support Keeler’s state-of-the-art products. This ensures that our commitment to quality is upheld, and our distributor network remains well-informed and proficient in delivering optimal solutions to our customers.

How will the facility support the wider eye-care community?

Currently, our focus is on enhancing distributor training and technical services. However, we aim to extend these improvements to benefit non-distributor clients in the future. The facility’s proximity ensures faster technical service, appealing to clients seeking efficient and informed support.
Anticipating discussions about allowing customers to visit and test devices due to the facility’s proximity, we envision a fantastic opportunity for clients to experience advanced cryo and ultrasound services firsthand. This opportunity will further enhance local understanding and confidence in our offerings.

How will Keeler support the local community in Spain?

The establishment of our new facility in Spain is set to have a positive impact on the local community in various ways. Firstly, as the facility expands, it will play a significant role in creating jobs, providing employment opportunities, and fostering economic growth in the region.
Moreover, having a nearby service centre improves accessibility for the local community, ensuring a quicker and more efficient response to their eye care needs. The facility is not only designed as a service centre but also functions as a Logistics HUB, streamlining the distribution process. This logistical efficiency not only benefits Keeler but also contributes to the local economy by boosting trade and overall activity.
To further support our business development across Europe, Keeler has already employed a team in Spain and plans to increase the team size by over 30% in 2024.
Our investment in renovating the facility in Terrassa, aligned with the requirements of our Medical Device license, aims to reduce service times by 70%. This means that devices can be in clinics promptly, ensuring availability for practitioners delivering frontline eye care.
Overall, our vision is for the new facility not just to be a centre for eye care services but also a hub that actively supports and integrates with the local community, creating a symbiotic relationship that goes beyond employment opportunities and extends to improved access and convenience for residents.

What sustainable practices and technologies will be integrated into the new facility?

The new facility in Spain is focused on incorporating sustainable practices to minimize our environmental impact, particularly in cryo and ultrasound services. A key initiative involves optimising logistics by being closer to our customers. This strategic proximity allows us to cease supplying replacement devices while a customer’s device undergoes repair or calibration, reducing equipment usage and directing production and transport efforts more efficiently toward end-use, promoting resource conservation.
Additionally, by conducting training sessions closer to our distributors, we aim to decrease the number of device shipments related to false problems. This not only streamlines training but also reduces unnecessary transportation, aligning with Keeler’s commitment to environmental responsibility. These sustainable practices enhance operational efficiency and contribute to a greener and more eco-friendly approach to eye care services.
Keeler has analysed shipping routes and methods, committing to holding service components closer to the market for faster availability. This shift allows us to transition shipments from air to road freight, reducing CO2 impact per kilogram by over 90%. The facility is equipped with LED lighting, PIR sensors, new high-efficiency air-conditioning system, replacement of single-leaf windows with air chamber windows to minimise energy consumption, and we are transitioning to Green Energy contracts.

What challenges did you face during project?

One significant challenge we faced during the development of this project was navigating unexpected regulatory hurdles in the host country. These regulations posed potential delays and required us to reassess certain aspects of our plan. To overcome this challenge, we established open communication channels with local authorities, sought legal counsel to ensure compliance, and adapted our strategy to align with the regulatory requirements. This proactive approach allowed us to address the challenge head-on, resulting in a smoother project progression and successful resolution of regulatory issues.
In addition, it was essential to have good communication/relationships with the different industrialists involved in the project as well as very good coordination to avoid delays and complications.

What were your project highlights?

Strategic Partnerships: We successfully established strategic partnerships with local authorities and community representatives. This collaboration has not only ensured a smooth integration but has also garnered essential support for the project.
Innovative Sustainable Practices: The implementation of innovative sustainable design practices has been a highlight. We incorporated eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and waste reduction strategies, aligning the project with Keeler’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

If you’d like to discover more about Keeler’s European servicing options, including booking services, please click here.

Who would you like to acknowledge as key contributors to the success of the project?

I would like to extend my appreciation to a dedicated team of individuals who have played pivotal roles in ensuring the success of this project. Their commitment, expertise, and collaborative efforts have been invaluable throughout the entire development process. Special acknowledgement goes to Marta Sáenz, David Murillo, Raúl Cuevas, Trinitat Arcusa and Romina Puglisi for their exceptional contributions in overcoming challenges, fostering innovation, and maintaining a focus on the project’s objectives. Their dedication has significantly contributed to the positive trajectory and success of the endeavour.