Jeremy Woods, managing director at Mrs Crimble’s, on missing out on Top of the Pops and being a bit like Bagpuss


What was your first-ever job? Saturdays in the kitchens at the John Lewis department store in Bristol.

You've got 25 words to describe your career to date. Always food! From Lucas Ingredients to Mrs Crimble's via Wotsits, Pot Noodle, Marmite and Knorr. I've managed some of the UK's best-loved brands.

What is the worst job you've ever had? See answer to question one: hot, smelly and poorly paid.

If you could change one thing in the grocery industry what would it be? Why do you have to wait six months to change a fixture plan? If it's a great new product, put it on sale straight away.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? When customers get in touch to tell you how great Mrs Crimble's products are.

What is the least rewarding part? Customers not being able to find a particular Mrs Crimble's product in-store.

If you weren't in grocery, where would you work? Running a small pub or café specialising in vegetarian food or playing pub gigs.

What's your best interview tip? Be yourself.

What was your worst job interview? I did one interview for the Milk Marketing Board, which involved lots of silly role playing.

If you were allowed one dream perk what would it be? A self-filling tea urn.

What is your motto in life? Just Do It (vaguely based on the Nike slogan) sometimes with an added F!

What do you like to do outside of work? Sadly I'm the lead singer of a covers band, available for weddings, and parties (plug).

What was the first music single you bought? Silly Thing/Who Killed Bambi? by the Sex Pistols, with the popcorn picture sleeve. Yes I still have it and yes I realise that's a bit anorak.

What did you want to be when you were a kid? I've only ever wanted to appear on Top of the Pops. The band I was in during the 1980s did get played by John Peel and Janice Long, but didn't get anywhere near the charts.

What's your favourite movie? The Shawshank Redemption, because the underdog beats the system.

Do you have any phobias? I used to hate flying.

If you could pick a celebrity to join your staff who would it be and why? Sir Alex Ferguson, he's a winner and his record speaks for itself, and we'd get good seats at Old Trafford.

What animal best reflects your personality? Bagpuss, because I'm pink and stripey, and occasionally grumpy.

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