Mick Johal, Owner
Describe your average day…
My day starts at 4:30am – even on my days off! I like to get in bright and early and usually get in to the office for 6:00am.
I start by completing invoices; checking over the accounts; pay money where needed and ensure this processed and allocated accordingly. I then chase any unpaid balances. Next, I analyse the routes of the drivers to ensure appropriate roads are being used to complete customer’s deliveries. I will set out guidance and re-route if needs be before they even get into the office. I can often see the routes are glowing red with traffic on my large flat screen computer, so I need to re-route the teams!
Tell us how you came to be in this role?
I started driving from a young age and always wanted to be in transport. I eventually purchased my first vehicle 12 years ago whilst working in aggregates; within three months bought my second and I just carried on building from there.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
The feeling of accomplishment at the end of every successful day, week, month, and year is a good feeling.
What three skills do you think you need in your role?
Lots of patience; This is needed dealing with multiple stakeholders
A good babysitter; To be able to look after the drivers, ha!
A good sense of humour; To navigate through the daily challenges faced in this industry
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Trying to be competitive whilst the cost of materials just keeps increasing. As of late especially. Recently, we have experienced 3 cement price increases and told it is set to rise yet again. These costs inevitably have an impact for all involved.
How would you describe the team at Cemgate?
Dedicated, hardworking and great for banter!
What’s your biggest achievement so far?
Running my own successful business which is now recognised both in and out of London. From a young lad wanting to own a truck I have built up a fleet running volumetric mixers, tipper lorries, cement tankers, Hiabs and a pump along with tractor units and trailers. So rather a comprehensive fleet, that I am very proud of!
Why would you recommend working at Cemgate?
There is an opportunity to grow with the business by learning various types of vehicles and operational processed in the plant. We have trained drivers who have come in working as class 2 drivers and have progressed to Class 1. We have others who have learnt how to operate plant machinery. Everyone has the chance to learn new things if they so wish and this also allows for variety and flexibility according to operational requirements as most drivers are dynamic. This is good for both the company and personal growth and we encourage personal development throughout our team.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy cooking as and when I get the chance!
What was the last film you watched?
I don’t have time for that, I am quite busy with the business and tend to keep busy!
If you could meet one famous person person, who would it be?
My younger self!
If you could go back into any period, which year would you choose and why?
Thinking about going back is wasting time as you can’t change anything! I would rather concentrate on today to make a better future. Look forwards always!