talking to simon cen

Simon Cen grew up in Foshan, a large city in the central Guangdong Province of China with an industry centered around tile manufacturing. After graduating from university, Simon joined a large tile company where he learnt about the production of tiles - and in his role as the Export Sales Manager he fell in love with the industry and with international sales.

When Camron Whittaker, National Tiles’ General Manager of Product & Procurement, started working with Simon during his visits to Foshan and saw his potential, Simon was invited to move to Melbourne to join the National Tiles team. “Working in tiles for the export market, it was always one of my dreams to work in another country, so I was very honoured and excited to move to Australia and work with Australia’s leading tile retailer. I had travelled extensively but I had only ever lived in Foshan, so there were many going away lunches, dinners and parties before I made the big move!”

During his first few years at National Tiles Simon worked as procurement assistant and with the commercial team, sourcing tiles overseas and expanding the supply base. Now Simon works closely with Cam on the product development range from China more specifically, and more generally on the global import program for the company.

“With technology I am able to communicate every week with my family and friends, but Australia is my home now.” SIMON CEN

“Working in tiles for the export market, it was always one of my dreams to work in another country, so I was very honoured and excited to move to Australia...

My favourite childhood memory is: Having Yumcha with my dad in the morning before going to school.

I am passionate about: Travels, architecture, tiles and plants!

On the weekend you will find me: Probably playing badminton and some Chinese restaurants.

My ideal dinner menu… everything with rice! Hmm I love a steak from time to time as well.

I am inspired by… My late aunt, she was the greatest woman of my life.

One thing most people don’t know about me… I have been to over 50 countries and want more. My favourite home design style… I think a mid-century house with wabi sabi design aesthetic is the pretty thing I would dream of.

The best advise I have been given… Love what you do and do what you love.

What I’m loving from National Tiles range at the moment… Frammenta is my all-time favourite. The texture and authenticity of the ceppo di gres replica is just the next level of tiles.

What I love most about working at National Tiles… Definitely the challenge and thrill in my role, sourcing and working on new ideas of products with suppliers makes me feel accomplished too.

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