News Releases - 2003

Employees Leading the Way at Ross Video
by Rebecca Comfort, Morrisburg Leader

IROQUOIS, ONTARIO - November 3, 2003. "You can't have an extraordinarily successful company by just doing ordinary things," says John Ross, founder of Ross Video, of his philosophy which is evident throughout the facility.

"Ross Video is a company which makes the equipment used to put together the evening news," explains Ross. The equipment is used to receive and assemble a sequence of pictures under the control of a program director.

Ross Video designs and develops the complex circuitry, which is transferred to printed circuit boards. They then manufacture and assemble the equipment.

"Each board has its own role, and they all go together to produce one piece of equipment. It is like making a specialized keyboard for picture processing, instead of word processing," says Ross.

This is a landmark time for Ross Video. In the last couple of weeks Ross, has turned over his title as president to his son David and celebrated the 30th anniversary of the founding of the company. One week later, two employees were honoured for 25 years of employment.

Ross Video has built its success on its product, and by empowering employees to share in the company's successes.

"Ross Video is funded entirely by its own achievements in designing, making and selling superior products," says Ross. "Our goal is nothing less than to become the leading supplier of on-air production systems worldwide. Our success can only come from exceptional teamwork and the truly inspired individual contributions of its people."

Founded October 25, 1973, Ross Video has undergone a number of changes, all an indication of growth and success.

Looking for a suitable location to open the doors to his new business in 1975, Ross spent weeks traveling between Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto and chose Iroquois as the place he wanted to work and live. He opened a small shop in the east wing of the Iroquois Shopping Plaza and hired three local employees.

Now 30 years later, Ross Video has grown, employing 160 people, 100 at the recently expanded and newly renovated facility at 8 John Street in Iroquois and 60 at the Ottawa based research and development division.

"We have experienced very large growth in all areas," says Ross. "The most in research and development and next in sales and marketing."

"We are putting down roots in various countries," he adds. Those roots include sales people in the U.S. and Europe.

"Our growth will be continuing, and our company will remain privately owned," says Ross.

ÒThe key to our success is our people. Here at Ross Video, we are trying to create, and continue enhancing, an atmosphere where people can prosper. It is a constant joy to see that.Ó

The proof is easily seen touring the facility and seeing the people at work. Louis Ho and Helen Roberts have both worked 25 years at Ross Video, and say "Ross Video is a great place to work. They treat their employees well, and we love it here."

That sentiment is echoed by everyone from the manufacturing floor to the sales team, and beyond. Kathy Myers has worked a total of 16 years at Ross Video. She left for a few years and came back. "It's a great place. You can't beat it. That's why I came back, and I was fortunate enough to be able to come back."

Long time employees and new employees share the same statements. "It's a nice atmosphere," says Bev Ault.

The atmosphere is one Ross has cultivated by giving the work place a family atmosphere in more ways than one. Last Tuesday, Ross officially named his son the new president of Ross Video.

"I've had a good long run at things, and now it's David's turn. David is passionately committed to anything he gets involved in. We are fortunate to have somebody taking over who knows so much about the company."

Production manager Linda Hunter also spoke at the gathering. "We pledge our full support to you David, as you steer us into a new and successful era."

An appreciative David Ross said, "I really do believe in this place and the people we have here. I believe this is a family company, not just family owned."

"I like that we bring people together so everybody can be their best, and grow with the company."

"I want to make this company, that is already successful, more successful, but I don't want to change what it feels like in this company. It has a nice family atmosphere."

John Ross is staying on as chairman of the board of directors, and executive vice president of operations and administration.