Welcome to TQ&Me - our brand-new staff spotlight series that puts the people behind T.Quality in the spotlight.
From our depots and trade counters to our support teams and sales force, TQ&Me gives you a chance to meet the faces behind the brand. Each edition features a quick Q&A with a different team member, sharing stories, insights, and maybe even a few surprises about life inside and outside of T.Quality.
Whether it’s someone you know or someone new to you, this series is all about celebrating the individuals who keep our business moving.
Name: Mark Morrison
Job Title: Northern Purchasing Manager
Team/Department:Purchasing
Time at T. Quality: 3 and a half years
1. What’s your role at TQ, and what do you actually do day to day?
I am responsible for the daily stock control for the Glasgow, Darlington and Leeds depots. I assist our operations teams with any delivery, stock and space issues they have. I also assist our sales team to ensure we have sufficient stock for customers as well as deal with product requests. I also deal directly with a range of suppliers to develop our product range and negotiate pricing.
2. What do you enjoy most about working here?
I enjoy working with a driven team where we all pull together to achieve our goal of supplying our customers with great products, pricing and service. Teamwork makes the dream work! I am very passionate about the industry and enjoy discussing market trends with suppliers and what new products we can offer our customers.
3. What’s one project or achievement you're really proud of?
I am proud of developing the range of desserts and ice cream which have proved very popular with our customers. I am also proud of developing our range of Italian pizza products which I hope to develop further over the coming year with some events being planned.
4. What’s something surprising about your career journey?
I have been involved in the fish & chip trade since I was a child. My family’s business, Morrisons Foodservice, started by my grandfather in 1966 supplying beef dripping to fish & chip shops. When I was younger, I used to spend the school summer holidays in the warehouse kicking a football around until I was old enough to help with admin and calling customers for their orders.
I have worked in all areas of the business: operations, purchasing, sales, accounts, payroll and even delivery driver. Having that all-round knowledge really helps me understand how the business works as a whole. We became part of the T Quality family in 2022 and although it was a big transition, it has been a challenge I have really enjoyed.
5. What advice would you give to someone just starting in your role or team?
Communication is key. Never be scared to ask for help from your colleagues if you are unsure as there are no silly questions. I am still learning a lot after 3 years! Establishing a good rapport with colleagues across all departments is important to ensure we are on the same page and willing to help each other when needed.
6. What do you like to do when you’re not working?
Spending time with my family is important to me, particularly with my wife and son doing fun activities or going on adventures. Our next adventure will be the Enchanted Forrest in Pitlochry which we go to every year to see the light show which is magical!
7. Any fun facts?
I can speak a bit of Spanish as my wife is Dominican. Albeit, my 4 year old son is starting to put me to shame with his Spanish skills!
Stay tuned for more TQ&Me interviews fortnightly.
