At Riverside Waste Machinery, we’re proud to have a team of employees possessing a range of extremely varied skills and qualities – each relevant to their own role. So, we’ve decided to let some of our staff fill you in on what a ‘typical working day’ looks like for them.
Next to feature is our MD, Jonathan Oldfield. Discover more about how he prioritises his workload, his thoughts on meetings, and the one item he couldn’t be without in his working life…
What time does your day begin and what’s the first thing you do?
It completely depends on how my working day is looking – if I’m heading into the office then around 6am, but if I’m travelling around to meet clients, it’s as early as needed!
Before you start work, what does your typical morning routine consist of?
Grabbing a croissant and an – all-important – coffee, then helping the kids to get ready for school before I head on my way!
The working day begins – what’s the first task on your list?
Pour myself another coffee, check my emails, and begin planning for the day ahead.
How do you prioritise your jobs for the day?
I will always start by putting together a list of tasks then identifying the more urgent jobs. I’m aware that it’s also important to be flexible and not too rigid in my approach – sometimes things land that can’t be planned for!
Meetings – do you see these as important or avoid where possible?
I think they’re great, as long as they have a set purpose and aren’t just ‘for the sake of it’. As our office is open-plan, internal discussions are a regular occurrence.
Lunchtime arrives – do you take a break?
If the day permits then yes! I do always encourage my staff to take breaks, as they work hard every day. We also have a pool table so I love a game when the opportunity presents!
What one item could you not be without to help you do your job?
The kettle – as long as I’m topped up with caffeine then I’m good to go!
When does your working day finish?
Typically 6pm.
How do you prepare for the next day?
By finishing off as much of the day’s work as possible. And living by the five Ps – proper planning prevent poor performance!
What’s your wind-down tactic on an evening?
I love listening to Audible, it helps me to chill.
If you weren’t a managing director of a waste machinery company, what would you like to be?
Something to do with mountain bikes!
What piece of advice would you give to anyone considering becoming an MD?
Do what’s right, not what’s easy.
Describe your job in one word….
Busy!
