Lucy Woodhouse

Co-founder, Claudi & Fin, on slapping fish, defence strategies and mopping the office floor

lucy woodhouse claudi and fin

What was your first ever job? I was a fish slapper at Smales fish factory in Hull! I had to slap fresh fish on to a conveyor belt that froze the fish.

What’s been your worst job interview? I remember the interviewer asking what my defence strategy would be for the then current government. It completely threw me and I remember I started looking at the office walls for help: posters, clocks, hooks, anything! I tried to look like I was really thinking it out and soon something very special was going to come out of my mouth. It never did!

What was the first music single you bought? Wings of a Dove by Madness. Still a tune I love hearing.

How do you describe your job to your mates? We are one of a very tiny number of challenger brands blazing a trail in the frozen aisles and our mission is to create products that are better for families. I also mop the office floor, too.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Emails from customers are amazing because they energise you.

What is the least rewarding part? Replies never coming to carefully crafted pitches.

What is your motto in life? Work hard, play hard. Although the play now often involves a playground rather than a nightclub.

If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? A swimming pool in the office, please.

Do you have any phobias? I’m not keen on rats or anchovies.

If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? I would make the in-shopping experience in the frozen aisles the most exciting place to be on earth!

What luxury would you have on a desert island? Mascara and blue cheese.

What animal most reflects your personality? My business partner said something small, fast and full of energy - a meerkat.

What’s your favourite film and why? The Godfather - an incredible story about family, loyalty and power.

What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? Probably that job interview!

Which celebrity would you most like to work with? Victoria Beckham. She is an incredible businesswoman and a super mum. And I can imagine her quite enjoying one of our mini lollies.