Introducing Proprietor Gokul Santhamurthy TECHNOLOGY

“Retail is in my blood,” says Gokul Santhamurthy, Proprietor of the Computer Mobile & Technology Department in the new Harvey Norman store in Masterton. “My father and my grandfather before him were both in retail back in India.”

Gokul moved to New Zealand in 2004 and “on Saturday 17 December 2005,” he started working for Harvey Norman as a sales consultant. Eighteen years later, he’s still there having worked for several proprietors and general managers before becoming a proprietor himself. Gokul had “the privilege” of eighteen months of management training within Harvey Norman and over six years of being a manager across stores in Gisborne, Henderson, and Napier before landing in Masterton. “My role is not just a job, it’s a career.”

“My wife and I have moved to Solway, close to the Harvey Norman store and within walking distance of the local school.”

Gokul Santhamurthy can’t believe how lucky he is.

“I’m following my dreams,” he says. “I’ve always wanted to be in business, and I have this amazing opportunity. I’m excited about upskilling a new team of nine local hires and getting to know people in the community – our customers.”

Gokul is knowledgeable about the products he sells. He has qualifications in electronics from one of the leading engineering universities in India as well as from New Zealand. This has been supplemented with ongoing product training within Harvey Norman. He also enjoys the challenge of operating within a rapidly changing technological environment.

“Our Technology Department sells the suite of Apple and Microsoft products

– phones, watches, computers, laptops, tablets, and more. We have everything Google and Amazon produce to make your home a smart home. And that’s just for starters.”

The Harvey Norman ethos of helping customers resonates with Gokul. “I take pride in finding solutions for each individual and building a loyal customer base. It won’t be long before I’ll recognise people in the street and say hello. My team and I are here to help. Come and have a chat.”

The vibrancy and positive atmosphere of Harvey Norman keeps Gokul passionate about the business. The opportunity in the new Masterton store is the icing on the cake.

“It’s great to be here at Harvey Norman’s Masterton store.”

MASTERTON’S HARVEY NORMAN STORE, OPENS TUESDAY 20 JUNE