Guka Tavberidze
Founder and CEO, Savse Smoothies, on big cats, a tough trip to Harrods and The Family Man
What was your first-ever job? I used to work on the shop floor of Jigsaw selling women’s clothes. It was a long way from life at Savse.
What’s been your worst job interview? I’ve had quite a few! After dropping out of uni I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do and ended up getting rejected from more than 40 jobs - it helped make me who I am today.
How do you describe your job to your mates? That I don’t work. It’s a pleasure to take on the giants of Coke and Pepsi on a daily basis.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? Actually making a difference and giving consumers a product that is genuinely healthy and that also tastes great. It’s so motivating whenever I walk past someone drinking and enjoying Savse.
What is the least rewarding part? I find it really frustrating that so many people still don’t really know what is healthy and what’s not. I often speak to people who think they’re drinking healthy drinks, but they’re pasteurised and packed full of sugar.
What is your motto in life? Always find a way that works.
If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? A PA. I have more and more meetings to juggle and any help in this area would be cool.
Do you have any phobias? Pasteurised drinks!
If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? Clearer product labelling and in-store messaging to help consumers make better, more informed decisions and understand nutrition and quality.
What luxury would you have on a desert island? My phone to keep in touch with the goings-on at Savse HQ.
What animal most reflects your personality? A lion - they’re the only big cats to live in prides. At Savse we’re a big family and it’s a pleasure to lead the team.
What’s your favourite film and why? The Family Man - it’s a good reminder of what’s really important in life.
What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? In our early days at Savse I was so pleased to have finally secured a meeting with Harrods. When I arrived I realised I had brought totally the wrong samples and had to run back to the car past puzzled security guards.
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