PIPPrilt I • Dipesh Patel Compliance controller, Fortec Pallet Distribution
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Network Joined company: April 2010 Started current role: January 2013 What do you love about your job?
It's not mundane. My department has involvement in every part of the business and it's a varied role using maths, geography and analytical skills. It's almost like an education —the difference is I'm being paid.
What did you do previously?
I worked for Severn Trent Water as part of a small team managing reservoir levels for the Midlands.
Where do you see yourself in five years' time? I'll be looking to move into a more senior management role. This is achievable as Fortec is a small company and fully supportive of training and development.
What's the best thing about working in the road transport industry?
The variety — no two days are the same. Before I joined I never gave much thought to how everyday goods are delivered. Unless you see it first-hand you don't realise how much time, effort and technology is invested in order for you to receive something you ordered 24 hours earlier. How would you recommend the industry to others? The industry is really undervalued. It needs to be promoted to colleges, universities and to those on apprentice schemes to welcome more young, fresh and open minds.
What's the worst job you've ever had?
Working for Next Directory, aged 16. During the sales, the calls are constant and the one thing I could never understand was when customers ordered clothes that were three or four sizes bigger than they needed, but they still bought them as they were a bargain.
Who would be your dream boss?
I've always wanted to work for myself. There are, however, many people who I admire for their entrepreneurial minds, leadership skills and business acumen. I hope to learn from them so I can apply their skills for myself and hopefully become a better leader, manager and — one day — my own dream boss.