Jag Singh

Marketing manager, Wanis International Foods, on playing the tabla, being a panda, and Stewart Lee

jag singh wanis foods

What was your first ever job? A Saturday job at a builders’ merchant. I hated it, but I stuck it out for two years.

What’s been your worst job interview? It was for a large ad and PR company. The office and interview felt impersonal and clinical - I sensed it wasn’t right for me.

What was the first music single you bought? It was an album: Michael Jackson’s Dangerous. I wasn’t a huge fan, but I bought into the hype.

How do you describe your job to your mates? I randomly point out our products when we’re in, or passing, a shop and tell them I helped to put it there. Then I gently persuade them to buy one.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Tasting days, when I become an expert food critic, analysing potential new products we are considering for launch.

What is the least rewarding part? Admin. It’s essential and I’m very thorough, but I’d rather be at an event or working on a creative campaign.

What is your motto? If the shoe doesn’t fit, keep jamming your foot in till it does. It’s not strictly true and/or practical, but it does help motivate me.

If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? An unlimited supply of Tropical Sun’s Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce.

If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? To make the whole process much simpler.

What luxury would you have on a desert island? I play the tabla (Indian drums), so I’d definitely take those. Although I think I’d miss annoying the neighbours.

What animal most reflects your personality? Panda. Some of my mates call me that. Maybe because I’m adorable.

What’s your favourite film and why? Airplane. The movie is hilarious; genius even.

What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? I was booked to attend a conference at eight o’clock. For some reason I assumed it was 8am, when it was actually 8pm. I turned up bright and early - only to ‘feel the shame’ from venue staff.

Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? I love stand-up comedy and think Stewart Lee is pretty much the best in the world, so I’d love to work with him.