Inside Hranipex Warehouse: Steve Judd reveals secrets to a successful warehouse

Where did you start your career in Warehouse Management?

My dream was to become a RAF Pilot but unfortunately failed the medical exam, but later discovered a passion for warehouse management while helping friends organise their stores. I found the challenge of managing and optimising warehouse operations to be incredibly fulfilling.

What brought you to Hranipex?

I have never had such a stringent interview process which is what sold me the job, I went home to my partner and said ‘’I’ve never gone through this interview process before’’ which is when I knew this was the right place for me.

Describe what a typical working day in the Hranipex warehouse looks like for you?

Each day in the Hranipex warehouse is unique, and I find great fulfilment in being actively involved in the entire process, from picking orders to restocking deliveries and creating reports. I believe that in order to effectively lead a team, it's essential to have a thorough understanding of the tasks involved. By learning and experiencing what my team goes through, I'm better equipped to support them and make informed decisions.

To ensure that everyone is capable of carrying out all tasks effectively, I make it a point to cycle jobs around regularly. This not only avoids monotony but also helps keep our warehouse operatives satisfied and fulfilled in their roles. I'm proud to say that our recent record day was a result of our outstanding teamwork and collaboration.

What challenges can you face in the role and how do you overcome them?

One of the most significant challenges we encounter is the delay of deliveries caused by customs. We recognise that this can cause frustration and potentially impact our customers' experience. However, we approach this challenge with a positive attitude, seeking to find a balance that allows us to overcome the obstacle without burning out our team.

We work to plan around potential delays, ensuring that we have contingency plans in place to minimise any disruption to our operations. At the same time, we strive to maintain a healthy work-life balance for our team members, recognising that prolonged stress and fatigue can be detrimental to both personal and professional success. By adopting a positive and proactive approach, we can overcome these challenges and continue to provide exceptional service to our customers.

What is your favourite part about being part of the HraniTeam and why?

For me, the best part of being a member of the HraniTeam is the positive and welcoming atmosphere that pervades the entire company. From the moment I joined the team, I was struck by the sense of mutual support that characterises our workplace culture. I always feel that I am part of a community that values my contributions and is invested in my success.

What else do you want to achieve at Hranipex?

While I love working in warehousing, I believe that there is always room to grow and learn more about our business. In addition to gaining a deeper understanding of our warehouse operations, I also hope to expand my knowledge of other aspects of the industry.

How do you see the future of Hranipex?

From my perspective, the future of Hranipex looks incredibly promising. With a focus on expanding our operations and exploring new opportunities for expansion both in terms of our fittings business and our overall company growth.

What do you get up to in your free time?

I am the Chairman of Solihull Moores Walking Football Foundation section for over 50’s with a total of 6 teams who I help run and manage on the committee, ensuring that we provide a positive and fulfilling experience for all our players.

What is your proudest achievement in work and personal life?

Professionally, I take great pride in helping others develop and progress in their careers. Whether it's through mentorship or creating opportunities for growth, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone achieve their full potential.

On a personal level, I have two accomplishments that I am particularly proud of. The first was representing Great Britain in Tennis in 2017, an experience that allowed me to push myself both physically and mentally. Secondly, I am immensely proud of my daughter Lucy, who is in her final year at university studying music theatre. Seeing her pursue her passion and work hard to achieve her goals fills me with a sense of pride and admiration, and I look forward to watching her continue to thrive in the years to come.

What is one thing on your bucket list?

One thing that I've always dreamed of is going into a cage and coming face-to-face with some of the world's most majestic creatures: Great White Sharks. The thrill and adrenaline of seeing the power of a Great White Sharks up close would be an unforgettable experience. As someone who loves adventure, I believe that these types of experiences can help us push our boundaries and open up new avenues of discovery and growth. Whether it's diving with sharks or embarking on other exciting adventures, I am always eager to pursue new challenges and experiences in my life.