Name: Ishen Paran
Job title: Managing director
Company: Gymkhana Fine Foods
What was your first job? I had a paper round when I was 13 and have very fond memories of riding around slinging papers.
What’s been your worst job interview? My interview for Oatly – I had far too many coffees just before the final interview. Luckily, I got the job as they valued the high energy I was giving out.
What was the first music single you bought? Poison by Bel Biv DeVoe.
“What happens on team awaydays, stays on team awaydays – although I now very strongly advise against 2am bike rides”
How do you describe your job to your friends? Building a challenger brand to elevate Indian food in retail, one of the world’s most loved cuisines.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? Building something I am proud of with amazingly talented people and partners across so many different areas. Every day there is a new challenge, opportunity and learning experience.
I have now been in start-ups for more than 20 years and, I know it sounds cliché, but it is true: there has not been a day that has gone by where I haven’t learnt something new.
What is the least rewarding part? I have a long commute so there are days where I don’t always get back in time for the kids’ bedtime.
What is your motto in life? Learn from every experience, good or bad.
If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? Unlimited meals at Gymkhana world wide!
Do you have any phobias? Heights. I once had to do ‘Go-Ape’ for a team building day, which was the most terrifying thing for me, but with the team’s support I got through it.
If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? Compliance on secondary space. The space can be very expensive and to see empty units not replenished is tough when you know how important they are, and how much they cost, and how much work goes into them. It can have a significant impact on a smaller brand’s cash flow if not executed well.
What luxury would you have on a desert island? Some amazing spices – given the abundance of fish and coconuts on a desert island!
What animal most reflects your personality? Salmon – I have always gone against the current and taken a different path in life to the one those around me did or expected. I’m proud of that.
What’s your favourite film and why? La Heine. One of the first documentary-style films I watched, with incredible cinematography that highlighted social inequalities and a compelling ending, which most films back then wouldn’t dare to do.
What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? In my mid 20s, I started a new job and in the first few weeks we had a team awayday. The first night involved a team bonding session, which resulted in me turning up to day two in a wheelchair.
What happens on team awaydays, stays on team awaydays – although I now very strongly advise against 2am bike rides.
Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? Lando Norris the British F1 driver. Just so my eight-year-old could meet his hero.
What would your death row meal be? My mum’s Sri Lankan prawn curry and some dosas.
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