Simon Remmer

Sales director, Rombouts Coffee UK, on fruit machines, radio and leather jackets

simon remmer rombouts coffee

What was your first job? I was a product analyst in the gaming industry. My friends say I just used to play fruit machines all day, which was partly true - but that was a crucial part of the analysis!

What’s been your worst job interview? One my dad arranged at his workplace. I recall it was a massive wake-up call to the real world and I prepared well for all interviews from that point on.

What was the first music single you bought? Eye of The Tiger by Survivor.

How do you describe your job to your mates? Coffee maker and seller. My colleagues reading this will probably make fun and call me ‘Tea Boy’ from now on.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? The variety every day brings. As a coffee roaster, Rombouts covers many channels of business so there are always interesting discussions internally around how our range of origin coffees and blends will work well in each environment.

What is the least rewarding part? When you miss out on a contract you’ve worked hard for.

What is your motto? Onwards and upwards!

If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? A chauffeur to drive me to the office and home again would be nice.

Do you have any phobias? Heights - put me on a bridge of height and my knees start to buckle.

If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? For the buyers I like to stay forever and the other buyers to move on out!

What luxury would you have on a desert island? A radio. I love various types of music and am partial to Radio 4.

What animal most reflects your personality? I’ve been told I’m like a fox: enthusiastic, intelligent and charming.

What’s your favourite film and why? The Green Mile. It is not possible to watch this film and not be drawn in. Guaranteed tears every single time.

What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? Buying some leather jackets from a guy in a car park.

Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? Peter Kay. Only on a temporary contract though, as I can’t imagine it would be too productive. We’d have some fun though.

What would your death row meal be? Pizza - calzone or pepperoni. Hold the salad, please.