Jason Rickaby

Managing director and co-founder, PhD Nutrition, on pets, perseverance and Prince Charming

What was your first-ever job? Stacking shelves at a budget supermarket store. Ten-hour shifts for minimum pay!

What’s been your worst job interview? I don’t think I’ve had a bad one, to be honest. I always liked preparing and tried to impress.

What was the first music single you bought? Adam and the Ants - Prince Charming.

How do you describe your job to your mates? I describe my job as something I’m extremely fortunate to be doing. Running my own business in an industry I love, leading motivated, like-minded people. It doesn’t get much better.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Seeing key members of staff develop, further their own skillsets and abilities, then seeing the confidence which comes with that.

What is the least rewarding part? The emotional stress that can come with managing a growing business.

What is your motto in life? ‘Perseverance and character is far more important for success than intelligence.’

If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? A Michelin star chef on call in my house.

Do you have any phobias? Wasps, bees and failure.

If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? A greater sports nutrition offering. The major grocers are missing so much potential growth in an exciting, young category.

What luxury would you have on a desert island? Pharma Whey HT+ Double Chocolate bars.

What animal most reflects your personality? I have two Weimaraner dogs. They’re smart, savvy and loving but can be viewed as aloof. I think that’s a decent reflection of me.

What’s your favourite film and why? Alien. I’m a huge horror movie fan and love films that create a dark and claustrophobic feeling of tension.

What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? Passing out at 16 due to my first and last vodka binge after a football match with a Russian exchange team.

Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? Cristiano Ronaldo would probably be a pretty good endorsement for PhD. Movie star appeal yet seriously talented, hard-working and a genuine role model.

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