Graham Houghton, Technical manager, Sarson’s vinegar factory, on what’s bad about plastic and what’s good about One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
What was your first job? As a teenager, I started off with three different paper rounds, but soon progressed to working in my parents’ social club. I ended up managing it for six weeks while they were on holiday - an eye-opening experience!
What’s been your worst job interview? Being interviewed by my dad before joining his club. I was already nervous, but more so when he finished with the words: “Don’t mess it up - we’ll know what you get up to.”
What was the first music single you bought? I remember walking to the record store and buying Pink Floyd’s The Wall on vinyl when I was 12. I was so excited!
How do you describe your job to your mates? My mates call me the vinegar or pickle man; however there is more to it than that.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? The thing that makes me smile the most is when I see a member of my team putting into practice new skills I have taught them, and seeing them pass on these learnings to others.
What is the least rewarding part? The drive to work. It takes anything from one-and-a-half hours to two hours.
What is your motto in life? I didn’t think I had one, but I guess it is to stay calm and carry on.
Do you have any phobias? Heights and snakes. Luckily neither feature heavily in my job!
If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? The heavy use of plastic. Why are plastic bottles so widely used when glass is recyclable and much better for the environment?
What luxury would you have on a desert island? A boat so I could get off the island after a couple of weeks’ relaxation.
What animal most reflects your personality? A monkey - sometimes cheeky and mischievous but fun to be around.
What’s your favourite film and why? One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. I find it an emotive story with brilliant characterisation.
What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? No way am I telling you that. All I’ll say is that I’m very clumsy.
Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? I would love to spend a day with Simon Rogan to see how he creates such magnificent dishes.
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