Jez Pile

Technical director, Muddy Boots Software, on cycling, food waste and the much viewed Withnail and I

What was your first-ever job? Other than a few odd jobs in kitchens as a teenager, my role at Muddy Boots has been my only “proper” job - we established Muddy Boots during my third year at uni.

What was the first music single you bought? The Cure - Just Like Heaven. Still good today!

How do you describe your job to your mates? We make quality and compliance solutions for the food supply chain. I look after the product strategy, seeing how technology and application development can solve issues.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? When I walk into a supermarket knowing a large proportion of fresh produce has had a touch point with our software.

What is the least rewarding part? Recognising that working more collaboratively with suppliers, and accurately communicating quality specs with them, could make a significant difference to the huge waste in the supply chain.

What is your motto in life? Right now - pedal faster.

If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? I’m a fanatical cyclist and get a real buzz from pushing myself to go faster. Starting my day with a session at the office velodrome would give me far more of a boost than a cup of coffee.

If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? Reduce waste. Food that is 99% of its way through its journey that ends up wasted due to incorrect handling, labelling or avoidable issues is costing the industry millions.

What’s your favourite film and why? Withnail and I. I must have seen it hundreds of times. It is usually watched with good friends so many happy memories are associated with it.

What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? One very embarrassing moment was when I was driving my team mates to Bristol airport to take part in the Étape du Tour - an amateur race in the Tour de France - only to realise we were meant to be flying from Birmingham! Fortunately we made it there on time.

Which celebrity would you most like to work with? Sir Chris Hoy - an 11-time world champion, six-time Olympic champion, and a truly inspirational sportsman.

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