.

Derek Lindores has been an HGV Driver with John Mitchell since July 2000. We asked him to tell us a bit more about his 25 year career...

What led you to a career in logistics?

I have always had an interest in road haulage and after 13 years as a postman I decided to take the plunge and pay for my own HGV licence.

A chance encounter with a transport manager (Jim Scott) meant I was offered an interview and I got the job! 25 years later, I’m still here!

What does a typical day look like?

There isn’t one! Every day in haulage is different. I could be navigating small country lanes in the north of Scotland one day and then heading along the M25 in London the next.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

When the unexpected happens! It could be high winds, snow, or a tyre blow out, and you can always expect to be in a traffic jam somewhere!

What keeps you coming to work every day?

I come to work each day because my passion for road haulage remains the same today as it was 25 years ago. 

If you take yourself back 25 years, what were your first impressions?

I instantly felt how family-orientated the business is and that feeling remains today.

What are your favourite memories?

Being part of the 50 years in business celebration was brilliant and I also loved joining in with the community events around the Grangemouth and Falkirk area. This included driving for the Grangemouth Gala Day in which our trucks had the names of local charities we have supported – that was a great sight.

What advice would you give to somebody considering this role as a career?

If you have a passion for haulage, take the plunge. But be aware that it may not always be Monday to Friday, 9 to 5, which can sometimes put a strain on family life.

What might your colleagues not know about you?

They might not know how much I love rugby and how proud I am of my son who plays for Falkirk Rugby Club. Next year I am attending the Six Nations in Wales which will be my first Nation’s game away from home. I’m really looking forward to it and hope it has the same atmosphere as Murrayfield.

 

If you're interested in switching roles, have a look at our Current Vacancies to see if we have the perfect job for you.