Name: Max Rees
Job title: Co-founder of The Curators and big cheese of Cheesies
Company: The Curators
What was your first job? At 16, I did some waiting at hospitality venues like Wembley Area and Silverstone. I was terrible…but worked out a good double act with a friend where she swooped in and saved my bumbling wine pouring, getting loads of tips as a result!
What’s been your worst job interview? The law firms I applied for after uni. I clearly couldn’t fake a passion for endless proof-reading documents and corporate litigation!
“I’m always prepared to dig in and get things done”
What was the first music single you bought? Ready or Not by The Fugees. I’ve just come back from seeing Lauryn Hill live, 27 years after I last saw The Fugees as a 12-year-old!
How do you describe your job to your friends? We make protein-packed super snacks. But in general terms, my job is kinda like what they do on The Apprentice but (hopefully) with some actual competence thrown in.
They do love to ask me ‘how’s the jerky biz?’ even though we don’t make jerky any more!
What is the most rewarding part of your job? Creating products that people actually buy with their hard-earned cash (and love!), and seeing the members of our team get so passionate about building a brand that was just an idea only a few years ago.
What is the least rewarding part? Fighting the slow pace of change in the food industry.
What is your motto in life? You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.
If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? An in-house personal trainer and mental health trainer rolled into one!
Do you have any phobias? I’ve never been a good flyer. Definitely a control freak thing.
If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? A more consistent, collaborative and, most importantly, brave approach to innovation.
What luxury would you have on a desert island? As long as there’s enough growing around me to make some great food, it would probably have to be Sky TV or a way to keep up with the footie.
What animal most reflects your personality? A badger – they are known for their determination and persistence, which aligns with my own ambitious, fast-paced approach to leadership. They’re resilient, resourceful and fiercely protective of their territory.
I’m always prepared to dig in and get things done.
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What’s your favourite film and why? Back to the Future… a timeless (no pun intended) classic.
What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? Falling into a pond whilst feeding the ducks on a school trip when I was about 10. A life lesson for how to push close to the edge whilst still knowing your limits!
Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? Leah Williamson. An inspiring female footballer at the top of her game, and as a nutritious snack brand I feel like together we could flip the script on Mr Lineker and co, who are still peddling the same old unhealthy crisps.
What would your death row meal be? Either a steak from Don Julio in Buenos Aires (we visited on honeymoon and it was the best I’ve ever had!), or Indian meal from Gymkana.
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