Angus Peterson, general marketing manager at Birds Eye, on fish fingers, John Barnes and models


What was your first-ever job? If you exclude numerous bar and event security jobs, then working as a merchandiser/space planner for Martin the Newsagent. I travelled the length and breadth of the country in a 1.5 diesel Vauxhall Corsa van that went through a litre of oil every 200 miles.

Summarise your career to date. A mixture of retail, agency and fmcg, with the past decade working on three of the UK's biggest brands Nestlé, Heinz and Birds Eye.

What is the worst job you've ever had? Security on the inner door of the female models' changing room at The Clothes Show. A truly tough job!

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Agreeing a deal and seeing the fantastic work come to fruition. And of course there's nothing better than the Birds Eye fish finger tasting sessions.

What is the least rewarding part? Not agreeing a deal, tasting the competition and working very near the end of one of Heathrow's runways.

What's your best interview tip? Know the company and the market back to front.

What was your worst job interview? Several years ago a close friend got married on a Thursday. Unfortunately, I had a first interview on the Friday morning. My initial reaction was to retire early, but as the evening wore on it seemed only right that I should support the lovely couple into the early hours. Somehow, I got the job.

Where do you hope to be in five years time? At Anfield, watching Liverpool win the Premiershi. It's going to take that long, especially after they gave away the lead against Arsenal last weekend.

If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? A coffee machine on my desk making cappuccinos or double espressos depending on how good a day it was.

What is your motto in life? Make the most of each day, whatever it throws at you.

What do you like to do outside of work? Apart from visiting stores, looking at Birds Eye's share of space and spending time with family and friends, I like to watch and play sport. Think John Barnes on the football pitch and you're a long way off.

What would you request as your final meal? What else can I say but a fish finger sandwich with mayo, washed down with a pint of bitter.

What's your favourite movie? Gladiator. It's just a cracking film combining epic cinematography and musical score with superb acting. Russell Crowe does an excellent imitation of Richard Burton at his finest.

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