What is your role at The Wholesale Group?
I am a Purchasing Manager at The Wholesale Group, responsible for managing the following frozen categories: Bread, Savoury Bakery, Sweet Bakery, Cakes, Desserts, Cookies, Doughnuts, Ice Cream, Ice lollies, Cream, Sorbets, Vegetables, Fruits, Smoothies, Ready Meals, Sausage rolls, Pizzas, Pies, Pasties, Pates, Yorkshire puddings, Plant-Based and Pastry.
What did you do before joining The Wholesale Group?
Before The Wholesale Group, I was a Buying Manager at Fairway Foodservice for three years. Prior to that, I had an extensive 15-year career in buying across various sectors, including homeware, fashion, and food, working for retailers such as Asda, Next, and Primark.
What do you do when you’re not working?
I have four teenage daughters, including 14-year-old identical twins, so life is always busy and full of energy! I also hold a Master’s degree in Nutrition, which fuels my passion for staying current with the latest nutritional studies and research.
If you were able to retire tomorrow, how would you spend your time?
If I were able to retire tomorrow, I would focus on spending more time with my family, especially my children, and traveling to new destinations. Additionally, I’d dedicate time to my passion for nutrition, volunteering or working on projects that promote health and wellbeing.
Who inspires you?
My children inspire me every day because they constantly remind me of the importance of curiosity, resilience, and unconditional love. Watching them grow and discover the world around them with such enthusiasm encourages me to approach life with a fresh perspective and embrace the small joys we sometimes overlook as adults. Their ability to face challenges with courage shows me the value of perseverance and adaptability. They remind me that success isn’t just about achievements, but about the love and connections we build along the way.
What type of business would you go into if it wasn’t wholesale?
I would love to own a health-food shop.
What is the most interesting place you have visited and why?
Throughout my buying career, I’ve had the opportunity to visit a variety of destinations. One of the most fascinating and enjoyable places I regularly travelled to was India. The people, culture, and food are incredible. Although navigating the traffic in Delhi is not for the faint-hearted!
What do you like about working at The Wholesale Group?
The people! I’m fortunate to work with fantastic colleagues, members, and suppliers, who truly make The Wholesale Group what it is. The collaborative environment and strong relationships we’ve built are what make this such a rewarding place to work.
