23 September 2025
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Melissa Goodman, National Accounts Manager at Carrier Solutions UK, shares her journey in the heat pump industry and her strong message to other women considering a career in the heat pump industry: Go for it! But come prepared, organisation is key, always be honest, and finally, be bold!
I started my career in travel and tourism, working at Heathrow Airport, which gave me a great foundation in people skills, working under pressure and adaptability. But when I met my husband, Jez, the long commute became too much. So, I opened the newspaper, started circling ads and saw a job opening at a climate equipment company.
I started off in internal sales, but I soon realised sitting behind a desk wasn’t for me. When the external salesperson left, I jumped at the chance to get out on the road. Car, phone, client meetings… I loved it! It was a natural fit.
It wasn’t long until a few clients recommended me for a role at a major manufacturer and before I knew it, I was building a career in HVAC. Joining Carrier was a fantastic opportunity. It’s given me the chance to build strong and lasting relationships with my clients and be part of a business that’s driving real innovation.
What does your current role involve?
I’m the National Accounts Manager at Carrier Solutions UK, working predominantly with end-user clients in the retail and commercial space. That means I’m often the first point of contact for major brands when they’re looking to install or upgrade their HVAC systems, whether that’s across stores, offices, gyms or distribution centres.
It’s very much a business development role. I attend industry events where I meet prospective clients and follow up with them after initial meetings. From there, I support them through the tender process, introduce them to our technical teams and help shape solutions that meet their requirements.
Once a customer is on board, I coordinate with contractors and our wider teams to ensure projects run smoothly. There’s a lot of relationship-building, a lot of problem-solving and no two days are the same. One day I might be putting together a presentation for a prospective client, the next I’m visiting a site or liaising with the supply chain.
What do you see as the challenges facing the industry?
The biggest shift in HVAC right now is the move towards lower-GWP refrigerants and the wider push for electrification.
Whether you’re looking at heat pumps, air conditioning, or hybrid systems, the goal is the same: greater efficiency and reduced environmental impact. We’re also seeing rising demand for air-to-water heat pump systems, especially in the residential and light commercial sectors.
We’re well-positioned to respond to that at Carrier, thanks to our expanded portfolio, which includes Toshiba and now Viessmann, which we’ve recently brought into the group. It’s really strengthened our capabilities and positioned us well for the future.
But alongside all of that, one of the biggest ongoing challenges is simply staying ahead. Ahead of legislation, of customer expectations and of technological change. That’s what makes it exciting, but it also means you’ve got to be on your toes!
Did you have any mentors or anyone in particular who inspired you?
From my early days, my synchronised swimming coach, Kerry Shacklock, was a big influence. She was so graceful, disciplined and committed. Watching her train and perform made me want to be better. She showed me what focus and consistency could achieve.
I’ve had managers along the way who’ve really supported me, saw potential in me and gave me the space to grow. Jamie Brown, our Senior Business Development Manager and Dave McSherry, our UK Sales Director, have allowed me to be myself. They trust me to get the job done, which helps me feel confident in my role. That support means a lot.
What would you say to other women who are considering coming into the heat pump industry?
Go for it! But come ready. This industry needs more women and there’s so much opportunity, but it does demand a certain type of energy. You’ve got to be switched on, responsive and not afraid to get stuck in.
Organisation is key. I can’t stand seeing customers left waiting. If I’m copied on an email and someone hasn’t replied, I’ll step in, because that’s the level of service I’d expect for myself. Customers notice that kind of thing.
Also, I’d say always be honest. If you don’t know the answer to something, say so, and let them know you’ll come back with the information. People respect transparency.
And finally, be bold! Don’t shy away from walking into a room full of strangers or speaking up. This industry rewards those who show up, speak clearly and make things happen. You’ve got to be assertive, really, and bring your own personality to the role!
What do you like to do outside of work?
I was a synchronised swimmer for years, from the age of nine right through to my early twenties. I competed nationally and internationally and even appeared in a few magazine shoots and promotional films. It taught me so much about discipline, teamwork and how to perform under pressure.
