2/3/2023 - By Mike Hess

Sandy Simon has had a long and very dedicated career in regulatory compliance. With 22 solid years under his belt, he ended up finishing his last 8 years at Harrell's, and even though he may not have been here multiple decades, he certainly left a great impression on everyone who got to work with him.

Where Sandy's Passion Began

Sandy grew up in Sylacauga, AL, where he met his now wife of 32+ years, Margie. His passion for his field began when he worked for his Dad's plumbing and heating business off and on throughout high school and college. Sandy attended the University of Alabama but in his Junior year, the plumbing business was booming so he left college to come back to Sylacauga and work with his Dad.

Early Career

In the late 70's another opportunity opened up where Sandy got to go work in a coal research program. This job was truly career-shaping for Sandy as it allowed him to work in some environmental management positions including industrial water treatment systems, stormwater permitting, and hazardous waste identification and classification.

Soon after, things were one the fast-track for Sandy. He met his wife, got married, went back to school for an associated degree in Environmental Management, and later finished his bachelor's degree in business management, through the University of Phoenix. It was only after these events that he started to move toward coming to Harrell's.

Career and Coming to Harrell's

"In 1992, I joined Pursell Industries and managed environmental and safety programs," Sandy said. "Within a year, I assumed responsibility of managing their pesticide and fertilizer registrations. It was a steep learning curve, but that early struggle is what really prepared me for my career path."

In 2001, Pursell sold its consumer business to United Industries/Spectrum Brands in St. Louis, MO, and Sandy and his family moved along with them. But, when Spectrum Brands divested their fertilizer business in 2009, Sandy was recruited by Scotts Miracle-Gro to join their team in Marysville, OH, which is where he would end up staying until 2014 when he joined the Harrell's family.

"I first met Jack Sr. and Jack Jr. in the early 1990's during my time at Pursell. I was talking with Jack Jr. in early 2014 about something totally unrelated to employment when the topic came up. I then met with Jack and Gary Rust in July of 2014, which led to me coming to work in Lakeland in October of the same year. It was quick when it came down to it, but it really felt right."

"The best work experience of my career."

Sandy has been a part of the Harrell's compliance team for the last 8 years, finishing out his 30+ year career in the field. With this being one of the longest stretches at a company for Sandy's career, I had to ask the question of, what kept him with Harrell's for so long? To which he responded, "Harrell's is a people-oriented organization. The management team recognizes their most important assets are in their employees and customers, which truly sets them apart. I believe Harrell's works to take care of people, and I certainly agree that this is the best work experience of my career."

Some Advice from 8 Years at Harrell's

After 30+ years of experience in compliance, Sandy knows what does and doesn't work for companies, large and small, fast and slow paced, so some of his advice would be for compliance to be as flexible as possible and to help the business move forward and stay out of the ditches that might slow things down. "Harrell's is a fast-paced company and doesn't need to have the business restricted with unnecessary policies and procedures, although some guidelines are necessary. Compliance should be business focused and compliance driven."

What Sandy Does Outside of the Office and His Plans for Retirement

Sandy and his wife love to travel and try new foods in all the places they go. They're looking forward to being able to travel more without the pressure of limited vacation time, as well as try new foods and head to the beach as much as they can.

Otherwise, they have no major plans for now, but he is most excited to spend more quality time with his wife at their home in Flagler Beach. "Being with her all of the time is great and getting to enjoy her company full time is even better. But later on, we see some travel in our future."

Thank you, Sandy, for everything you've done for Harrell's and we wish you and your family the best as you step into this new chapter.