For week seven of our In The Spotlight interview series, we’re chatting with Nathan, our MD.
What’s your role at John Pipe – and what does it involve?
I’m the Managing Director, and my responsibilities involve supporting the first-class team of professionals that I have the privilege of working with.
Before working at John Pipe – what was the most interesting or unusual job you’ve had?
My position as senior animal manager at Little Amazon, now known as Island Amazon Adventure on the Isle of Wight was by far the most fun job I have ever had. Working with tropical birds, monkeys, reptiles, fish, and bats, every day was filled with danger and excitement. I particularly enjoyed conducting meet the animals sessions, basically showing off with the animals to a group of awe-struck people is the best!
How long have you been working for John Pipe?
Fifteen years in November this year.
What would you say is your favourite part of the job?
Partnering with our customers and supporting them to achieve their deadlines and ensuring their goods get to their customers in first-class condition and on time.
How would you describe John Pipe in 3 words?
Caring, Supportive, Family.
What’s the most memorable thing you’ve packed at John Pipe?
So many different things from stuffed animals, beautifully handcrafted instruments, scientific equipment, a plane, equipment for soldiers, huge factory machinery, and undersea cables on bespoke cable drums, but the item that sticks in my mind most is a specific set of cardboard boxes that had to be designed in a way so that they could be secured together as a single unit, but easily separated without tools, fire and water resistant, drop tested, with fastenings allowing the boxes to be opened and closed without tools and reusable up to 100 times, while at the same time, being small enough to pass through a specific sized window. I am very proud of our design and solution.
What’s a movie quote that you really like?
I’m Mary Poppins Y’all! (Yondu in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2)
What’s your favourite holiday that you’ve been on?
Family camping trip to Perranporth in Cornwall. Best beach in the world. Great for Children.
What do you like to do for fun outside of work?
Collect comics and build Lego!
If you could go on a road trip with any famous person, who would it be?
Milton Jones, Stand Up Comedian. – He is absolutely hilarious!!