Potato supplier is going through a period of growth and emphasising employment opportunities
Branston has carried out a major recruitment drive, with more than 25 skilled workers brought into the business since spring.
The company said its expansion was thanks to securing new product contracts and investing in innovation programmes. It has also been accelerated by the success of its dedicated mash factory, which has seen strong consumer demand since launch.
The new recruits cover all areas of operation from administrators and line operatives to production managers and apprentices.
Branston has spotlighted two of its newest entrants – Tomas Lubys and Charlotte Bodman – who both joined in the summer. Lubys joined as a night shift production manager with more than a decade of experience in potatoes, while Bodman joined as a technical administrator for the Prepared division.
Lubys said: “When I heard about the mash factory opening, I was eager to get involved as I could see Branston wasn’t a business that was slowing down. Being part of the right business is essential for me as I want to be able to grow and develop with the company and everything I knew of Branston before and have seen since starting has shown this is the case here.”
His role involves making all the night shift decisions, relating to packing, dispatch and health and safety, among other responsibilities. He can oversee up to 30 people a shift at times.
“The balance of autonomy and support I’ve been given by the senior team to manage and implement improvements is fantastic,” he added. ”With lots of new team members, cohesion is really important and I’m already focused on ensuring individuals are mentored and have clear progression plans, as there really are so many opportunities here.”
Of her experiences so far, Bodman said: “From the outset the recruitment process was not intimidating and showed Branston has created a really accepting environment. The team has since been incredibly supportive with flexible working patterns and company benefits that suit my needs as a working mum.
“It’s not just the welcoming culture though – the role is engaging too and really plays to my strengths. I can’t wait to get into the factories to learn more about the products.”
Branston is still looking for its next set of recruits, with up to 30 additional roles on offer across the entire business, which currently employs 850 people at its Lincoln site.
