Name: Amy Schmidt
Job title: Office manager
Company: Lily’s Kitchen
Sales: £2m
HQ: Hampstead, London
Number of employees: nine

What’s it like to work for your company? Exciting, challenging and fun. No two days are the same and there is always lots going on.

Why is it a good employer? Being a small team, everyone’s strengths are valued, and everyone has a voice. Staff also have a great opportunity to try out different areas of the business moving from customer service to sales, for instance.

Does the company offer any unusual benefits? We have a great annual summer barbecue and the MD cooks a mean Christmas dinner. Also, you get discounted petfood.

How does the company differ from its rivals? We are a small independent company in a market dominated by a handful of multinationals, so the quality of our products and service is paramount.

Is there a definable company culture? Definitely fun, and teamwork is important too. We have a genuine passion for producing the best dog and catfood possible in an ethical and sustainable way.

If the company were a car what would it be and why? If Porsche did an eco-car, that would be it. In terms of a real car, we would have to be a Prius high-quality, eco-friendly and good value for money.

What’s the training like? All training is tailored to the needs of the individual. It is mostly on-the-job, but for specific areas of expertise we do use external trainers.

Has the company won any awards? For the fourth year running, we are the number one UK petfood company, according to The Ethical Shopping Guide. Also, Lily’s Kitchen was a finalist in the Startups Awards 2009 for startup business of the year.

What has been your proudest achievement recently? Introducing some really innovative products into the dogfood market (Bedtime Biscuits), and raising awareness of the importance of good nutrition for pets.

Are you looking for any people right now? We are always looking for great people to join the team in sales and customer support positions.

How does one go about applying for a job? Send an email to bark@lilyskitchen.co.uk letting us know why you want to join the team and what is great about you.

What tips would you offer jobseekers? Do your research. Tailor any application to the role and company, and don’t forget it is as much about you finding your ideal job as it is about the company finding their ideal employee.

How do I find out more about the company? At www.lilyskitchen.co.uk.

Are you working on anything exciting right now? We are working on new products all the time we’ve just launched Venison & Wild Rabbit Terrine for Dogs and Organic Turkey Dinner for Cats, and the next new product will be a brand new treat for dogs, packed full of unique herbs and goodies.

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