Matthew Thomas
Company:
BaxterStorey UK Ltd
Job title:
Managing Director - London
How did you get into the sector:
I completed a BSc in Business with Marketing at New Hampshire College on the East Coast of the States. As part of that I did an internship with Marriott International in Southern California - on completion of the programme I was offered the chance to stay with Marriott for a 5 year development program - I felt at the time that this was too long so opted to return to the UK to further my career. I joined Granada's management programme, I was attracted to the diversity of the program and the characteristics of the role (involvement in growing sales, improving food standards and managing operations). Later on within my career I returned to college to complete a post grad in HR and that really helped all things ‘people’.
What do you enjoy about your role:
I enjoy the diversity of the position and the ability that I have to influence the business and its people
Career high:
There have been many - personally, but having a well-engaged team who have a focus and a purpose is a pleasure to see. More recently I have managed the commercial re-branding of our coffee / retail concept which has been well received and we have also this year had some real ‘statement wins’ which is a great endorsement by clients that we are doing the right thing.
Career low:
Losing my first contract in the contract catering, it was a long time ago - but I still remember how it felt. It was an invaluable lesson that taught me I should never be complacent and I should also strive to challenge myself and those around me to always do their best.
What are your plans for the next year:
My plan is very much to assist with the growth and evolution of BaxterStorey whilst at the same time working very hard on client retention and new food and service initiatives.
What was the biggest break of your career:
Whilst working as an operations manager, I was given the opportunity to move to sales before returning to an operations director role. The move from operations manager to director is a large one - I really feel that my sales experience gave me exposure to a new area of the business and this really helped me gain insight to a number of different businesses and environments - I found this invaluable.
What are you most proud of in your career:
My ability to build and retain a successful team.
What advice would you give to people keen to progress in the industry:
Don't ever lose focus and always give your all.
Who inspires you:
Anyone who has a good understanding of their business and the ability to make decisions - I like people who are decisive.
What do you do in your downtime:
I love running and I am hoping to do some competing next year, perhaps even a marathon. I also swim and cycle, it is fair to say that I am quite competitive and I enjoy a challenge. As an opposite to that I love walking the dog (Archie), eating and cinema!
What question do you always ask in interviews:
I usually ask one of two - either, what high street brand does an applicant most admire and why - giving a good idea of where they are and how they think about business. The other question that I ask is "What are your weaknesses?" Everyone has a weakness so knowing yours or your teams’ often saves time, in a team you need a blend of skills and competencies and it is a line managers’ role to balance that.
Tips that have made you a success:
I work hard and have a highly competitive streak. My time in sales taught me determination and resilience - these are key tools for anyone who wants to be a success!