Russel Smith

"My colleagues are amazing, everyone I work with is experienced and serious about their job but casual to the point of making a friendly environment."

Where are you from?

I am from the UK, I grew up in Shipton-under-Wychwood until I was 12 and I then moved to Standlake.

When did you join Noble Foods and who were you back then?

I only joined Noble Foods 2 years ago. I started as a warehouse operative, picking and loading. Then the position for stock controller came around and I applied to try and make a difference. I was just a man in need of a new job as the first lockdown came along and I had just lost my previous job to an American company take over. I also needed 6 months of work for my wife’s spouse visa, luckily Noble Foods at Standlake was close by and willing to take me on.

What do you like about working for Noble Foods?

I love the people, everyone; no matter how many language barriers or differences we have, everyone is kind and works together to the best of their capabilities.

What does a typical day at work look like for you?

A typical day at work for me starts with eggs. Excluding the obvious pun my day really does start with the damaged eggs. Any damages need to be recorded and documented, and I see this first thing as I walk into the warehouse floor. I then make my way to my office to put together all the morning reports for the previous day. Next, I send out emails for the day’s dispensation and stock checks. I make my way to the morning meeting to present the day’s statistics and discuss the day with the managing staff.

Once all the day’s reports and updates are done, I then focus on the warehouse and stocks. I stock-check all the stock through the warehouse. I might see a potential stock that could be an issue or become a risk and plan accordingly. I make sure all PID’s are correct and in their locations. I will arrange transfers of stock and organise the warehouse to be accurate and audit-ready.

Between my main role I offer training to newcomers and the future stock controllers. I also manage and maintain the warehouse technical sides such as printers, scanners and work instructions. Recently I took lead on implementing Standlake’s packaging live.

What is it like working in a packing centre?

Working in a packing centre does offer its challenges. With issues never being the same or reoccurring on a regular basis. It is a busy environment and always in motion, but it is a good place to work in.


How would you describe your team/colleagues?

My colleagues are amazing, everyone I work with is experienced and serious about their job but casual to the point of making a friendly environment.