Name: Andrew Scott
Job title: Systems Manager Armitage DC
Tell us a bit about yourself
I love socialising and being around people. In my early teens I took over my dad’s homebrewing (in particular wine making) and helped fuel many a house party in our street as five families used to regularly meet together for birthdays, BBQs and seasonal events, so this continues to be my contribution to most of the gatherings I attend. The Covid garage bar was a thing! But wine on its own is a bit boring, so I love to cook and entertain, and the summer evenings are dominated with gatherings round the fire pit!
I enjoy playing the guitar, having recently acquired a dream model Taylor 24CE GA limited edition Koa build. My faith is important to me and the main channel of my musical expression, and as such I travel and support several contemporary Christian events and gatherings.
I enjoy a good walk and frequently cover the rural and urban tracks around Stafford where I live, and I’m situated near the castle which has amazing views. During Covid the outdoor ‘social’ event became a big thing, so I acquired an electric bike to support the return ascent home. Less said about that the better. I have grown quite fond of a good cycle ride!
I’m not a book worm or a TV couch potato. I prefer to be active, and I spend a bit of time in the garden and doing DIY. I installed a log burner several years ago so I’m in my element when wielding the chainsaw. Mind you, the neighbours seem a bit distant these days!
My wife Julie passed away five years ago after 27 years of wonderful marriage. We went everywhere and did everything together, and we supported and were involved in a strong social and community network. Nevertheless, the years since her passing meant a massive adjustment and lifestyle change, especially with the arrival of Covid which added an additional spin. Within reason, life is what you make of it and seeking and embracing new opportunities has always been my outlook, thankful for what I have had and looking forward to what is ahead.
Describe your job to a five-year-old
I don’t really want to be talking to five-year-olds about toilets! Leave that to mum and dad. But for the record, I help send new baths and toilets to people.
What do you like most about your job?
The problem-solving element and fixing what doesn’t work properly. People think distribution and logistics is just moving something from A to B, but there are so many aspects and elements involved, and these are frequently overlooked earlier in the business process. So, this keeps providing a fresh challenge to the daily routines.
How did you get here?
This July I will have worked for the company for 39 years! I really started a career in the sales office, having been accepted on a commercial apprenticeship, which I served a good proportion of in the warehouse to begin with! I worked in sales and distribution roles across our Cannock and Wolverhampton sites, and this is my third time at the Armitage site, which I returned to in 2007 on the tail end of the 2006 DC rebuild which assimilated three other warehouse and distribution sites into Armitage from across the company. And here I still am; it’s become family!
What motivates you?
Helping people up and over the line. Working with a team to achieve and reach a goal. I thrive on interaction.
If you could swap jobs with anyone, who would it be?
Whilst my office crew may consider this to be a pie maker, it would actually be to own and run a vineyard.
Your favourite song lyric or line from a film?
“We’re going to need a bigger boat” – Jaws. Since 2007 we say this several times a year in the DC!
Your favourite app?
Well, it’s got to be the one that makes life easier…it’s the banking apps.
Biggest facepalm moment at work?
During the stock take at Wolverhampton I split my trousers right down the central reservation. So, I jumped in the pool car and drove up to Stafford to change. Road was busy, but I just flowed with the traffic. Apparently, a handheld camera caught me dropping speed just past the signs. And guess what, they were on the other side of the road on my way back. Gained 6 points in around 20min. Our then company secretary called for photographic evidence as it seemed too co-incidental. Unknowing to me the images of my very determined expression were substituted into the daily production meeting presentation, which was then projected on the factory wall!! Happy days.