This Friday, we celebrate Paul Vigar's outstanding contribution to Programmed, beginning with a local job ad and transforming into a decades-long story of leadership, growth, and relentless drive.
Paul began his journey with Programmed as Regional Manager – Western Victoria. From those early days, he built the Geelong Branch from the ground up, created decades-long relationships with valued customers, and established the Ballarat Branch.
His leadership and determination saw him progress through numerous roles across the Painting business – including State Business Manager VIC/TAS, Regional Manager Melbourne, State Manager VIC/TAS, General Manager SA/NT, General Manager VIC/TAS, and ultimately Head of Painting VIC/TAS.
Paul’s career with Programmed is a testament to his hard work, drive, and willingness to take personal risks. Reflecting on his progression, Paul says, “The onus is on you to demonstrate you want the work – get out of your comfort zone.”
He credits his longevity to the constant opportunities Programmed has offered: “There are a lot of jobs to do – some you don’t even realise until you put your hat in the ring.”
Before joining Programmed, Paul worked for a protective coating company on a joint project. He clearly remembers seeing the Programmed team onsite – in uniform, with striking Impeller branding. “They looked so professional – a very impressive outfit,” he recalls. In what he describes as a ‘sliding doors moment’, Paul spotted an ad in the local paper for the Geelong role just two weeks later.
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While his leadership has made a lasting impact across many areas of the business, Paul’s heart has always been with Sales and Account Management. “I work for customers – it keeps you busy,” he says. He’s particularly proud of the long-standing relationships he’s built – none more so than with Geelong Grammar. “I was relentless. Patterned cold calling, constant rejection, showing up at the door. But we got there – and it’s one of the longest relationships in the business.”
To honour Paul’s outstanding contribution, the VIC/TAS Commercial Painting team has established The Paul Vigar Cup – awarded annually to the highest sales achiever in the VIC/TAS sales team.
Paul is the embodiment of our Work and Smile philosophy. When asked what he’ll miss most, he simply said, “Wearing the Programmed logo proudly.”
Paul, your legacy is woven through the very fabric of our business – and you’ll always be part of the Programmed story.
If you have a story to share that demonstrates the reasons we Work and Smile, you can submit your story by clicking below. And don't be shy! Every accomplishment, big or small, matters.
