My Ilchester Cheese Co. journey started before the building was even built! I was an electrician originally, and wired the place when it was built. I then worked for an aircon company and serviced the airconditioning in the building. Whilst I was doing that I was offered a role here, as engineering supervisor. Over 30 years, I worked my way through a number of roles as engineering manager, production manager, Christmas production manager, another stint as engineering manager, and now Continuous improvement and Capital projects manager. I know every machine very well as I’ve bought them all, but I’m proudest of the first robot that we brought in to pick the portions and improve efficiency on the snacking line. It was the first step to automation in the whole factory.

My current role is my favourite so far as it has so much variety, and I can see the reward at the end of it through improving efficiency. I love coming up with new ideas, and having the freedom to do this, and make it happen. I’m always thinking of new ideas to make things run faster, be easier for the operators, or more environmentally friendly.

The people at The Ilchester Cheese Co. are a friendly bunch. It’s not a hierarchical business, and we work together as a team with the same goal. People are prepared to listen to the ideas of others.

I love Jarlsberg® because of its fresh taste, and the experience of slicing it with a cheese plane. I’m also a big fan of Mexicana® as it’s so versatile on toast, in a chilli or on a burger.