With Lewis Hirst
Great companies are built by great people. And Lewis Hirst at our Dewsbury depot? He’s exactly the kind of person who makes Forkway special.
What’s your role with Forkway, and how long have you been with the company?
My job title is Business Development Manager, and I joined the company in October 2021. Time really does fly!
There are a few different elements to your role; what would you say is the most challenging?
Good question. Each element within my role has different challenges, but collectively, it’s probably trying to tie Lewis F down to go through something with him; he’s never at his desk!
What’s the best/most rewarding part about working in the Sales team?
I’d probably say the whole process of getting the order, really. It’s very satisfying to receive the initial enquiry, do the site survey, quote, and get the order. Oh, and then the commission…
What’s your go-to lunch spot near the office?
We’re quite lucky here at Dewsbury that there are plenty of different options. But I’d probably have to say Bank Street Kitchen, the G.O.A.T., which is quite often a Friday treat! Honourable mentions to Coults & Ossett Gyros, though.
What’s been your favourite moment at the company so far?
Hmmm, there have been a couple of standout moments. But I’d probably say closing my first multi-truck deal for a new customer. Gaining the trust from the initial site visit to now having the customer use myself/Forkway as their go-to supplier for anything MHE is very satisfying and very rewarding.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Sport, playing, and watching. I’m a big football fan and have played since around 4 years old—I’m still playing (trying) 24 years later! I have also recently taken up Padel, which has become somewhat addictive. I challenge anyone to play it (unless they’re actually good)! I’ll also watch any sport, but it’s mainly football, cricket, and rugby league.
What’s the best holiday/trip you’ve ever taken?
I’m fortunate enough to have been on a number of holidays in my short 28 years, but the standout has to be my trip to Dubai and India in January 2024. Two contrasting places, but unbelievable memories made across the three weeks. However, I am going skiing in a few weeks in Avoriaz, France. Coming from someone who can’t ski, it’s certainly going to be an experience and one I can’t wait for. Although I think my favourite part will be the Apres-ski!
Name one item on your bucket list
I’d love to go to Australia and travel around. It’s all over my social media at the moment, and it just looks incredible. I’ve teased it plenty of times but never had the bottle; maybe one day!
What’s a food combination you love that others might find weird?
It’s not necessarily weird; I’d say it’s unique. I’m not a fan of ketchup or brown sauce, so if I were to have a breakfast sandwich (if there’s no egg), I’d be inclined to put mayonnaise on…
You’re a big Leeds United fan; what’s been your favourite moment following the team so far?
I’ve had a season ticket for a lot of years now, so I’ve certainly seen more lows than highs. But undoubtedly, it would be the promotion to the premier league in 2020. Even though it was COVID-19 and we couldn’t actually be in the ground for it, we certainly made up for it by being at Elland Road the night of the promotion and the days following. It was 2 weeks of carnage, which was followed by a few days in Benidorm. Hopefully, we can be celebrating promotion again in a few months!