Alan Wardrop, UK sales manager at Ian Macleod Distillers, on Radio 5, trousers and Iberico ham


What was your first-ever job? When at school I was a paper boy in Edinburgh for the local newsagent.

What was your worst job interview? For a photocopier company. The interviewer, who didn't smoke, asked me to sell him an ashtray. I said he wouldn't be needing it and that I thought it was photocopiers they sold and promptly walked out.

What was the first music single you bought? Something by Led Zeppelin or the like. I used to listen to a bit of music when I was younger, now I'd rather listen to Radio 5 and keep up with all the latest news and sport.

How do you describe your job to your mates? Running round the country selling spirits, conducting tastings and generally getting people enthusiastic about whisky.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Seeing a project come to fruition and to see the fruits of your endeavour on the shelves of the retailers.

What is the least rewarding part? Bad planning and poor communications, both internally and externally. It is very frustrating when important information doesn't get communicated.

What is your motto in life? Be prepared for all eventualities.

What's your nickname? Too many to list and most are rude, as they all derived from the rugby field.

If you were allowed one dream perk what would it be? Unlimited food expenses so that I could eat, and drink the best wines, in all the best restaurants in the UK.

What's your favourite movie and why? The Green Mile. It's a fantastic film and it really sends a message that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, no matter how cynical life tries to makes us.

What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? Splitting my suit trousers while boarding a plane to London and having to get into the city to buy a new pair before making my appointment with a prospective customer.

Do you have any phobias? I hate being late for anything.

Which celebrity would you like on your staff? Phil Tufnell. I enjoy listening to him on TV and radio and think he would be a real laugh. He seems to have a great personality and a wonderful outlook on life.

What luxury would you have on your desert island? A bottle of Glengoyne 1972/35 years old Single Malt, a whole cured Iberico ham and a chunk of rustic bread. Heaven.

What animal best reflects your personality and why? A beaver. Always building bridges!