Name: Tim Clifford
Job title: Managing director
Company: Jus-Rol
What was your first job? When I was 18 I worked on the packing line in a pie factory for eight weeks at Pork Farms during the summer holidays. It clearly gave me a taste of the food industry (although I probably didn’t appreciate it at the time).
It led me to taking up the role of sales rep for Smith’s Crisps in 1985 and more recently working at food broker PA Ross, supplying the UK’s largest retailers across multiple categories, launching brands like Leerdammer and Dailycer. I’ve been MD of Jus-Rol UK & Ireland since March 2025.
What’s been your worst job interview? I actually haven’t had an interview since 1996. Any before that are too long ago to remember!
What was the first music single you bought? ‘Denis’ by Blondie in 1978.
“Being a small business enables us to nurture our team members and provide opportunities for them”
How do you describe your job to your friends? It’s exciting. Since I joined the business just over a year ago, we’ve been focused on revitalising Jus-Rol, restoring the energy and appeal of a much-loved heritage brand.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? Developing people. I find it hugely rewarding to see people grow both personally and professionally by being part of such a people-centred business. Being a small business enables us to nurture our team members and provide opportunities for them.
What is the least rewarding part? The inevitable arguments over price, price challenges which is part and parcel part of being in the grocery retail industry.
What is your motto in life? Solutions over problems, always.
If you were allowed one dream perk, what would it be? More time to do everything.
Do you have any phobias? Negative people. I consider myself to be a very positive and forward-thinking person.
If you could change one thing in grocery, what would it be? I’d like to see more smiles! This is clearly linked to what I consider to be the most rewarding part of my job.
What luxury would you have on a desert island? Pepsi Max.
What animal most reflects your personality? It’s got to be a Labrador. Friendly, sociable, and people orientated.
What’s your favourite film and why? Sliding Doors because it shows you how decisions can affect your life.
What has been the most embarrassing moment in your life? When I was working as a trainee account manager, my competitive peers convinced me that I only needed to submit a five-page report for a project task deadline.
On the day of submission, the peer group smugly handed in a 100-page report each, resulting in an awkward meeting with my manager.
Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why? Nigella Lawson or James Martin, because I really enjoy their relaxed way of cooking.
What would your death row meal be? Rare fillet steak served with a peppercorn sauce.
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