When I decided to join Antonelli, the choice felt natural. The business had a strong reputation for quality and service, and the fact it remained family-run after 113 years really appealed to me. I’d spent my entire working life in that sort of environment, so it felt like the natural place to take my next step.
From the moment I arrived, I was straight into the action - there was no gentle start! After a brief induction, the academy was already full, and I went straight into a year packed with customer visits and reviews. It was certainly exciting!
A lifetime spent on the customer side has given me the insight I draw on every day. I know exactly what our customers need, both technically and commercially, and that experience helps me offer advice that feels practical and well grounded.
The biggest adjustment came from no longer working for myself. That took some getting used to, but the upside has been joining a group of colleagues who have made me feel part of the team from day one. Their support has made the transition far easier than I expected.
One of the things I enjoy most is how much the role stretches my existing knowledge. When you run your own business, you become very focused on your own recipes and systems, and they don’t always require constant reassessment. Here, the challenges change every week, which means fresh thinking and problem-solving are part of daily life. They push me to think differently.
There have been moments that have pushed me outside my comfort zone, including being persuaded to appear on camera for the academy! It took a bit of encouragement and getting used to at first, but I soon settled into it. What began as just another task has become a new way for me to connect with people, offering guidance to far more than those who are able to attend the academy in person.
Looking ahead to 2026, I want to keep strengthening my technical skills and knowledge. I’m also keen to help introduce new products that will give our customers something fresh to work with. After a year packed with learning, hard work, and countless conversations, one thing is clear: I’ve found a place where my experience really counts, and where I can continue growing while helping others do the same. My journey with Antonelli has only just begun and I’m excited to see what the future holds!
