What was your first-ever job? Sales assistant at Dixons. I worked in the audio/visual department at first but then moved to the computers section, which I was much more comfortable with.

What was your worst job interview? I was asked to come to the offices at RH Amar for a ‘relaxed and informal chat’ about a potential job opportunity. When I arrived, I was whisked up to the board room where the FD, CEO and operations director were lying in waiting. They took it in turns to fire questions at me. So much for an informal chat!

What was the first music single you bought? Gary Numan - Cars.

How do you describe your job to your mates? I tell them that I work for the UK’s leading fine foods distributor, which they seem to find interesting. Then I tell them I’m responsible for computers and IT systems in the workplace. That tends to stop the conversation in its tracks.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Making changes to get things working better.

What is the least rewarding part? When switching it off and on again doesn’t fix it.

What is your motto in life? Life can be serious at times so try and have some fun along the way.

What’s your nickname? At work it’s Jonners but my mates call me JB.

If you were allowed one dream perk what would it be? To do my work from the beach on sunny days.

What’s your favourite movie and why? The Great Escape. No matter how many times I watch it, it never fails to take me on an emotional rollercoaster.

What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? I managed to reverse my car into a ditch on a country lane when I was 17. On board was a young lady I was trying to impress and we were on our first date. Amazingly a minibus full of burly rugby types came to our rescue. I didn’t get a second date.

Do you have any phobias? Bees, wasps, hornets. I can’t help but flap about like a fool when one comes near me.

If you could change one thing in the grocery industry what would it be? Better forecasting.

What luxury would you have on your desert island? I’d have an anti-bee/wasp machine to ensure none came within 20 feet of me.

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