What’s the most exciting thing about your job?

I get to see the inner workings of factories and warehouses all over the UK and I’ve seen some really eye-opening and interesting things! Some processes work in really unexpected ways. I’ve been to poultry factories, pizza manufacturers, farms, huge distribution centres, prisons and inside Her Majesty’s Royal Mint! Plus I get to travel all over Europe visiting our suppliers. Every day is different, I love the variety. I’d also say getting to work with dedicated people. YPS has such a strong team ethos and I get to watch our people’s growth and see them going from strength to strength. It’s very enriching.

Who has inspired you most in your career?

Without a doubt it’s my dad, David Johnson. He founded Yorkshire Packaging Systems over 40 years ago and made it what it is today. His dedication, commitment and resilience is second to none. He puts his all into everything he does and I try to emulate him in my own career.

If you were an item in a warehouse, what would you be?

I’d be a bottle of wine in a drinks warehouse because I like to think that I’ve got better with age!

If you had your time again, what would you do different?

Honestly, not very much. I’m happy with the way things have turned out. I’ve always thought that if I hadn’t gone down this route and joined the family business I’d have gone into law though. It’s always interested me.

What’s your favourite pastime?

Keeping fit. I enjoy following a healthy lifestyle, gettting outdoors, participating in bootcamp classes, running and cycling.

Do you play a sport, follow a sport or support a team?

I am passionate about Liverpool Football Club and follow them closely. I’m a red through and through with a season ticket in the mighty KOP.

What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s happened in your career?

I made a real faux pas a few years ago when I copied somebody in on an email that was about them – oops! Nobody at YPS lets me forget it for long, it keeps coming back to haunt me!

Do you have any hidden talents?

None which are hidden – Im very vocal about my talents! On a serious note though, I honestly see myself as a jack of all trades and master of none. I know a bit about a lot, but I’m not an expert in anything. Apart from being a whiskey connoisseur perhaps!

Who would be your favourite party guest?

Billy Connelly would be my ideal party guest. He’s hilarious in a very clever way. I read that he ad libs his whole performances, he doesn’t prepare a thing. That’s real talent.

What is the greatest luxury in your life?

Having fantastic family and friends, of which I’m lucky to have many.

If you won the Lottery, what would you do?

Try to double it! So I’d have a focus. I’d invest a lot of it because I’m quite into stocks and shares. I’m not a money focussed person, I prefer having challenges to keep my mind busy. Of course I’d also do some good with it, giving to charities and the like. At YPS we are keen supporters of a local charity called Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice. It would be great to be in a position to help them even more.

Who or what makes you laugh?

I’ve got some friends who are really funny. Also comedians like Billy Connelly, Kevin Bridges and Peter Kay, who I’ve seen live a few times and really recommend. I also like cheesy TV shows like Only Fools And Horses, it gets me chuckling.

What’s your dream holiday?

I prefer action adventure holidays to sun-drenched lazy holidays. I get easily bored sunbathing and chilling out all day. So I’d say that Australia is the ultimate destination for me as there’s loads to see and do. Diving the Barrier Reef for example. Australia offers the perfect mix of luxury and adventure that I like.

What’s your favourite music album?

‘Memories…Do Not Open’ by The Chainsmokers. I came across it by accident and it’s brilliant.

What’s your favourite movie or Netflix series?

My favourite movie of all time is Forrest Gump. It’s a feel-good movie but it’s got meaning to it, the story recounts a whole lifetime. Its deeply poignant in parts and the acting in it is brilliant. When it comes to Netflix you’ll find me tuned in to House Of Cards or Suits.

What would be your advice to someone thinking about coming into the industry?

There are massive opportuniites in this industry for anyone if you are willing to work hard. Put your heart and soul into it and you will reap the rewards and see success.

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