Almost a decade in - and the drive hasn't faded.

When I joined ESS-FOOD, I was young, curious, and ready to take on something new. 

Before that, I worked in a company where every day looked the same - one product, one customer base, one routine. I realised I was too young to stop growing. So, when I heard about ESS-OOD - a place where I could work across 30 product categories and talk to clients all over the world - I knew it was the right move. 

Nine years later, I'm still here. 

Still learning. Still challenged. Still enjoying it. 

For me, it's never been just about selling meat. It's about relationships - building trust with customers and colleagues, understanding what people need, and helping them grow alongside you. I love when a client says, "Mathew, if you think it'll work in our market, let's try." That trust means everything. 

Of course, this business can be intense. The market changes fast, and ten other suppliers might be pitching the same thing you are. But instead of competing only on price, I focus on bringing something new - a different idea, a different approach. That's what keeps it exciting. 

I'm proud of how much I've grown here. I've learned to stay calm under pressure, to listen before reacting, and to trust my instincts. I've also learned that asking questions doesn't make you weak - it makes you better. 

The culture here helps with that. ESS-FOOD feels open and equal. There's no hierarchy in how people treat each other - everyone's approachable. It's a place where you can be yourself, do good work, and still have a laugh along the way. 

Outside work, I find peace by the sea - fishing, driving my 4x4 through the desert, and spending time with my family. My father spent 42+ years in sales with the same company. I grew up listening to his calls, watching how he connected with people. 

He's the reason I do what I do. 

And one day, I plan to beat his record - just 32 years to go.