Get to know our team

Paul Southwell and his business partner founded Switched On Electrical as two qualified electricians with a background in commercial and industrial work. With over five years of experience, they started offering a high-quality and affordable electrical service to customers in the Coventry area.

Switched on Electrical underwent a reorganization, with Paul leading the transition to a family business and his wife Paula joining him. They prepared for a changing market and added a more varied range of services. They started to take on an increasing amount of domestic work, thanks to their growing reputation and recommendations. They also became fully NICEIC registered and hired their first apprentice.

Paul and Paula became a family with the birth of their son and took on Dan Bent, initially as a work experience student.

Dan became a full-time apprentice alongside Paul, and the growth of SOE really started. They invested in new equipment and technology, such as smart home devices, and LED lighting, to offer more sustainable and innovative solutions to their clients.

SOE added a second shiny new van to their fleet, signalling their arrival as a reliable and professional contractor in the industry. They also hired Ben Brown, a newly qualified electrician seeking experience.

SOE celebrated their 12th anniversary by moving into their first permanent base, a unit on Broad Lane, Coventry.

SOE grew their business by acquiring a third van, allowing them to serve more customers and areas. They also increased their commercial work, partnering with local developers and businesses. They proudly earned the Safe Contractor approval, showing their dedication to quality and safety standards.

SOE moved to a larger unit with dedicated office space, still on Broad Lane. They also launched their website and social media platforms, increasing their online presence and customer engagement.

SOE responded to the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic. They only shut down for three weeks during the entire lockdown, still delivering a great service with complete PPE. Paul and his team helped their local community by giving discounts and free consultations to key workers and at-risk groups.

SOE continued to grow and improve their services, with a focus on customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility. They hired Tate, a new apprentice, and added a fourth van to their fleet. They also stepped up their commercial activity, working on larger and more complex projects.

SOE hired Ben, an experienced electrician looking for the next step in his career. He brought more skills and expertise to the team, enhancing their reputation and performance.

SOE hired Brad and added a new vehicle, another experienced electrician, to strengthen the team with more experience. He also helped to train and mentor the apprentices, ensuring the next generation of electricians was ready to take on the challenges of the industry.

SOE are looking for the next electrician to join the team, and they have updated and modernised their website. They are grateful for the trust and support of their loyal customers, and they look forward to serving them for many years to come.