Franka Mulgirigama, senior national account manager, Bahlsen.
What was your first-ever job? As a part-time sales assistant at John Lewis in Oxford Street, in the children’s shoe department. It was a real eye-opener!
What’s been your worst job interview? The worst has to be when I turned up to be greeted by three rather surprised looking faces. It turns out that all three of them had expected ‘Frank’ - a man - to turn up! Sometimes an unusual name confuses people!
What was the first music single you bought? Bryan Adams - Summer of 69. I remember listening to it on repeat so many times.
How do you describe your job to your mates? I describe my job as having an “occasion every day”. Coffee breaks at the Bahlsen office are always a joy.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? Building relationships with our retailers and unlocking potential opportunities. However, I also love seeing product activations coming to life in store - it makes all of the hard work that goes on totally worth it.
What is the least rewarding part? Wading through emails - especially after the weekend and holidays.
What is your motto in life? ‘If you believe, you can achieve.’
If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? I’m a lover of delicious food but a very bad cook. So it would have to be my own personal chef.
Do you have any phobias? Caterpillars - there is nothing worse.
If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? Even greater collaboration with our retailers, and teamwork across all customer departments.
What luxury would you have on a desert island? A very generous supply of Bahlsen biscuits to keep me going, of course.
What animal most reflects your personality? A horse: loyal and individual, good at building strong relationships, trustworthy and always willing to learn.
What’s your favourite film? Pretty Woman - cheesy, I know. It’s such an easy film to watch and it’s an absolute classic.
What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? When I went on a children’s ride at a fairground, which made me really quite sick!
Which celebrity would you most like to work with? Rihanna - I think it would just be a big party constantly.
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