At Joseph Flach & Sons, our team is at the heart of everything we do. Each person brings their own story, knowledge, and passion to the business, and today we’re delighted to introduce you to Julie, who works in our Purchasing team. Julie has been part of JFS for more than a decade, and her experience and friendly nature have made her an invaluable part of the company’s journey.
-
Can you introduce yourself, your background, personally and professionally?
I’m Julie, I work in our Purchasing team. I’ve been with the company for just over 10 years, arriving around 6 months before Ben bought the business.
Prior to this, I worked for a Fine Foods company, delivering in the local area to some of the UK’s best restaurants, including Michelin-starred establishments. Initially, I worked in sales and later moved into purchasing, sourcing high-quality products and building strong supplier relationships.
-
What are your best personal qualities, and how do you feel these have impacted the business and culture at JFS?
I like to think I am friendly and helpful. I have well-rounded knowledge of several of our products, but as I always say, ‘every day is a school day’! We’re always learning and increasing our knowledge as legislation and customer requirements evolve.
-
What is your favourite part of your job?
I enjoy problem-solving, finding solutions and overcoming obstacles and potential issues. I also enjoy being part of a team and lending a hand where I can.
-
An interesting fact about yourself?
In a previous life, I was in the Army for a short spell!
-
Favourite place you’ve ever been?
Stamford – I come from Stamford and also went to boarding School there. Stamford is a beautiful town widely regarded as one of the finest stone towns in England. The existing street pattern has essentially remained the same since Saxon times – it’s worth a visit if you are in the area.
-
Favourite meal?
Chinese takeaway! Simple, comforting, and delicious.
-
What do you do for fun?
In my spare time, I enjoy watching educational and entertaining content online. I also enjoy baking and experimenting with dehydrating foods, jerky is my new favourite project.
-
What’s the most enjoyable thing for you working at JFS?
A wonderful set of great colleagues! I’m proud of the culture and the atmosphere we have created at JFS.
-
One thing you’re the most proud of at work?
One of my proudest moments was attending Biofach 2024, the world’s leading trade fair for organic food. There, I had the chance to meet some of JFS’s valued suppliers face-to-face, a highlight in my career and a reminder of the strong relationships that underpin the business.
-
Smelliest product?
Valerian Root. It has a very strong and distinctive earthy odour.
-
Favourite product?
Vanilla Pods, a true classic with endless uses.
-
Most interesting product and why?
There are many interesting products, it’s hard to choose just one!
Julie’s warmth, experience, and problem-solving skills make her a key part of JFS’s culture and success. With over a decade of commitment, she continues to help the business grow while supporting colleagues and suppliers alike.
