Luke Johnstone

Founder, PACK’D Smoothies, on the Prince’s Trust, bungee jumping and David Beckham

luke johnstone pack'd smoothies

What was your first-ever job? I was a lifeguard at 16, working weekends at Europe’s largest outdoor pool. I absolutely loved it! 

What’s been your worst job interview? The trickiest was my first interview at the BBC Natural History Unit. I put on a suit that didn’t fit and trekked from London to Bristol where nobody wore suits and everyone had a zoology degree except me. I didn’t get the job first time round but I persisted until I did.

What was the first music single you bought? Eminem’s ‘Slim Shady’ album was the first music I can remember buying.

How do you describe your job to your mates? It’s a unique opportunity to build something from nothing and make the biggest positive impact possible.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job? Hearing great reviews from customers using our smoothie kits and also working with the Prince’s Trust to help other young people and businesses.

What’s the least rewarding part? My salary.

What’s your motto? Dream. Believe. Achieve.

What’s your nickname? Lucky is my favourite.

If you were allowed one dream perk what would it be? An in-house personal trainer for everyone on the team.

What’s your favourite movie? It’s a toss-up between Donnie Darko and LA Confidential.

What’s been the most embarrassing moment in your life? The moment I dived into the pool to start a tense swimming race and my trunks came clean off.

Any phobias? Heights. I did a 400 ft bungee and it made it so much worse.

If you could pick a celebrity to join your staff who would it be? David Beckham. He’s a living legend and the ultimate brand.

If you could change one thing in grocery what would it be? The dominance of big businesses that promote unhealthy products over the little guys offering real nutrition. I think the tide is turning as health goes mainstream and big business begins to react.

What luxury would you have on your desert island? A companion. Things are always better with someone to share them with.

What animal best reflects your personality? A wolf, but not as a predator, more for the ability to go solo as well as rejoin the pack.