Karl Goodwin, commercial director at Creed Foodservice, on his journey into wholesale, and on what makes him tick.
What was your first ever job?
It was washing up! A family friend owned a club, and I washed up in the kitchens at the age of 13. At 16, I joined the Royal Navy, following in my father and grandfather’s footsteps.
What does your average day involve?
There’s no such thing as an average day. Commercial for Creed means head office purchasing, business support and marketing, so it could be as varied as meeting one of our key suppliers, attending a marketing presentation, or getting involved in one of our many data projects with our business support team.
What do you take to work every day in your briefcase?
Copious amounts of fruit! I’m a bit of a fitness nut, and I take the idea of getting your ‘10 a day’ very seriously!
What is the best thing about working at Creed?
It’s a friendly, genuinely nice business with a great culture. Everyone has a smile on their face and goes out of their way to be helpful. Our recent Best Companies ‘One Star’ rating confirms what a great place it is to work.
How would your colleagues describe you?
What I hope they would say is that I’ve always got a smile on my face, and that I try and find the funny side of things. I also hope they say that I’m fair and empathic, but extremely focused on business goals.
What do you do in your spare time?
I am in the process of completing a 10-year property renovation, so when I’m not at work or in the gym, that’s my obsession. The property sits within a vineyard – unfortunately not mine – so when I’m not renovating, I love to sit in my garden with a nice bottle of French red wine, ideally a Bordeaux or St Emilion, just drinking in the view!
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
We’re all ridiculously busy, but reflection is important. Taking time out to review a situation or activity, your day, week, month or your year, allows you to take stock and be more mindful. Also, don’t be afraid to speak your mind when necessary.
Who would play you in the film of your life?
I have been told many times throughout my life that I resemble the late Oliver Reed, so it would have to be him. I also live life to the full and enjoy a glass of red!
Do you know any jokes?
What did the cheese say when he looked in the mirror? Halloumi!
What is your approach or philosophy to work
I know I have already said this, but be honest and take time to reflect.
