Laura Willems, Mentos and Smint brand manager, on strawberries, laughter and blood pressure machines

What was your first-ever job? Picking strawberries in the Netherlands. 

And was it the start of a beautiful career in food? Yes. I graduated in marketing then started as a sales rep for Stimorol in the Netherlands before moving to Perfetti van Melle as a marketing assistant. I was then a product manager for Fruittella managing the Netherlands and Belgium before I moved to the UK as the brand manager for Mentos and Smint.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Mentos becoming the fastest-growing mint brand in the UK.

What is the least rewarding part? Purchase order numbers.

If you didn't work in grocery what would you like to be? Interior designer.

What's your best interview tip? I think it is important to just be yourself.

What was your worst job interview? My first one, as the interviewer told me I needed to grow up.

Where do you hope to be in five years' time? Managing my own marketing department.

If you were allowed one dream perk what would it be? A big rooftop terrace with cocktail bar for after-work drinks.

What is your motto in life? Laugh every day.

What do you like to do outside work? Travelling, socialising and playing tennis.

What's your nickname? Dutchy.

What did you want to be when you were a kid? Stewardess I thought I'd be able to see the world.

What's your favourite movie? The Sixth Sense - I loved the amazing twist.

What was the most embarrassing moment in your life? Too many incidents to choose from! Perhaps talking about my ex-boyfriend's mother when the phone hadn't hung up properly!

Do you have any phobias? Hospitals - specifically blood pressure machines.

If you could pick a celebrity to join your staff who would it be and why? George Clooney as we lack handsome men in the office!

What would you request as your final meal? Home-cooked lasagne with Dame Blanche hot fudge sundae for dessert.

What's the weirdest thing you've eaten? Kangaroo.

What luxury would you have on your desert island? A yacht.

What animal best reflects your personality and why? Lion - because I get things done!

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