Please can you tell us about your previous work and what drew you to working for Acorn?
Previously, I had owned my own pub for 22 years in Lothersdale. It was hard work, and I was always on the go. I worked behind the bar, in the kitchen, a bit of cleaning – just everything. I enjoyed the catering side of it more, so I looked for something in the catering industry (just with a bit less responsibility!)
I have always liked working with people. After working at the pub, I worked at a supermarket, but the hours and working culture didn’t suit me. I knew specifically what I wanted – a bigger company for the stability, but still with a family company. I didn’t want to work for a company where you’re ‘just a number’.
I started working at Acorn in November 2023, and it is exactly what I was looking for. At Acorn, you don’t feel like you’re ‘just a number’. Everybody seems to know everybody else, even though there are a lot of us – even the directors make a point of getting to know you.
By working in the canteen, you get to know everybody from the office staff to production and even the installers and engineers who pop in.
I do love working here, and I tell everybody on a regular basis. I was recently speaking to Ken, who works in our production site, and he said, “If you have a bad day, it’s the camaraderie that gets you through.” It’s true. Everyone is supportive, and it is a great place to work.
What does an average day look like for you?
Every day is different, even though the routine is the same. I come in, help prepare the breakfast and serve the food, same with the lunch routine, and then there are lots of bits in between. It’s a very customer-focused job, and I love that. I like knowing I have the structure, but it’s always exciting, especially when you’re working with a nice team. That makes a big difference.
Working with my team is the best part of my job. We all get on really well and even meet up outside of work for a bit of team bonding. We all look after each other and think of solutions on how we can help each other.
Do you have a favourite memory about working at Acorn?
Everybody always says the same, but it’s the annual Garden Party at head office! I’ve been to all of them since I started, and it really is a great night, such good fun. Last year was fantastic; it was an Ibiza-style night with a great DJ, and I loved dressing up for the night. I’m very big on the charity work we do. Manorlands is a charity close to my heart, so I always like donating to them, which is another reason I love going to the Garden Party.
There are plenty of other perks of working at Acorn, like a discount train pass to help you get to work and back, and a good pension scheme. It’s great to know these perks are there if you need them. The best one must be the subsidised canteen, but I think I’m a bit biased!
I come to work to work and pay for my holidays, so as long as I can continue doing that, then I’m happy! We’ve got a holiday booked to Torremolinos in a few weeks, and I can’t wait. I love relaxing in the sun.
How do you like to unwind after a busy day at work?
I do as little as possible! I’m a big reader, so that takes up most of my time. I like lightweight, chick-lit books. I also like a good biography, and I’ll read one on pretty much anybody; I’m not bothered who it is.
On a weekend, my husband and I like to go out somewhere where there is live music – it’s something we’re passionate about. I’m not ashamed to say I’ve probably been to see Paul Weller 30 times or more. I love him and his music!
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I went to catering college with the intention of working in the army. I got far in the interview process, but something changed my mind when I was 18. I don’t know what it was, but I decided it wasn’t for me.
What is one thing people don’t know about you that they would be surprised to find out?
I’m a part of a line dancing group at my local village hall. I even have the boots, diamanté jeans and checked shirts. My sister-in-law and I started going, and I loved it so much I kept going back. I love country music – if I had to listen to one type of music for the rest of my life, it would be country music!