What was your first job? As an office junior in a recruitment company. I cried for the first week. Thankfully, I overcame my existential dilemma and got my head down. It was a big transition!
What’s been your worst job interview? I have literally got up and walked out of an interview. The element of recruitment that I loved was the hunt - searching and not giving up until you found something. That agency offered none of that thrill.
What was the first music single you bought? Madonna’s Like a Virgin album. As an eight-year-old boy I was drawn to the cover. I thought ‘awesome, she’s in her underwear’.
How do you describe your job to your mates? When I first set up Capsicana I probably told my mates I was working down the market!
What is the most rewarding part of your job? When someone genuinely loves your product.
What is the least rewarding part? Going from me doing everything to employing a bigger team. It’s great that the company is growing, but I liked the immediacy of making decisions on my own.
What is your motto in life? Never wait for perfect conditions.
If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? A PA.
Do you have any phobias? I’m absolutely petrified of heights and have a massive fear of failure - so I stay the hell away from cliffs and work very hard.
If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? The time lapse between listing confirmation and on-shelf date for NPD. Of course there’s a lot to set up on both sides but I always wish it could happen more quickly. Also, last-minute changes to store numbers or launch date. Managing the supply chain to fulfil to these can be a challenge, although we do always manage to adapt.
What luxury would you have on a desert island? My guitar. It sits on the end of my desk and I play it when I need to take five minutes out.
What’s your favourite film? Lars and the Real Girl is right up there. The scene where Bianca is introduced to the family absolutely creases me up.
Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? Jeff Bridges - everyone needs an El Duderino.
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