What was your first ever job? Delivering milk in the evenings after school with the local milkman. He liked to get a head start over those who delivered in the morning!

What was your worst job interview? I can’t remember anything truly horrendous. I do remember a job I really wanted – and reflected after the interview that telling them what I wanted to tell them rather than answering the question was unlikely to be a successful strategy. It wasn’t.

What was the first music single you bought? I think it was Gonna Make You a Star by David Essex. About 10p in a second- hand shop.

How do you describe your job to your mates? I stick to the facts, telling them I’m an MD of a food ingredient business. Fortunately, most then nod sagely. Explaining malt ingredients concisely is a bit of a challenge.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Helping my people develop and seeing them building successful careers – especially those who are just setting out.

What is the least rewarding part? Paperwork – and there always seems to be a lot.

If you were allowed one dream perk what would it be? A new Maserati Ghibli. Second perk would be for the company to cover the tax!

What’s your favourite movie? Donnie Darko. The weirdest film I have ever seen – who can forget the giant scary rabbit? The Godfather Part II would be a close second.

What’s been the most embarrassing moment in your life? Since having learned not to dance even if I’ve had so much to drink that I think I can, embarrassing moments have faded away…

If you could pick a celebrity to join your staff who would it be and why? Dara O Briain. He’s not only funny, he knows stuff too!

If you could change one thing in grocery what would it be? I’d close the gap between producers and retail innovation teams. They can offer expertise and a deeper understanding of natural flavours and ingredients.

What luxury would you have on your desert island? A massive library to pass the time. Maybe a satellite phone… What animal best reflects your personality and why? I think I would be a cat – curious, independent and adventurous.