What was your first job? I worked as a care assistant at an eating disorders clinic in Sheffield. It was really rewarding.
What’s been your worst job interview? My first formal phone interview with a large consultancy. Being an overconfident 16 year old, I gave one-word answers to complex business problems.
What was the first music single you bought? The Prodigy - Firestarter. Honestly, I bought it because of the felt tiger print cover.
How do you describe your job to your mates? I make English wine. It just happens to be in a can for environmental and convenience reasons.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job? Supporting local industry. It would be much easier to do our job using foreign grapes or canners, but it’s important for all stages of production to be close to us here in south east London.
What’s your motto in life? There’s always room for pudding. Also, if it’s out of your control, forget it and move on.
What’s the least rewarding part? Honestly, none of it. I gave up everything to start The Uncommon with Alex [Thraves] and will never let myself take anything for granted.
What’s your nickname? Hen Pen, although I had a much less flattering one at school…
If you were allowed one dream perk what would it be? How about wine all day, every day?
What’s your favourite movie and why? Gladiator. The main character Maximus had an immense sense of morality - he always did what was right. Plus he’s tough as old boots.
Do you have any phobias? Submechanophobia [the fear of submerged man-made objects].
If you could pick a celebrity to join your staff who would it be and why? David Brent. He has proven himself a true leader time and again.
If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? Plastic. If only nature could provide a thin protective shell for fruit we could do away with it.
What luxury would you have on a desert island? Yorkshire Tea, and I’d need a kettle, milk and a thin-lipped mug. I’m hoping you’ll be generous.
What animal best reflects your personality? A giraffe - uncompromising with a view of the big picture.
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