Cameron Butler
Team Member
Cameron Butler is a member of the FoodFlo International Team in our Factory. We caught up with him shortly after starting the role to get his opinion on the recruitment process and the journey of joining the team as a new employee.
You have recently started with FoodFlo as a Factory team member. What drew you to apply in the first place?
I heard good reviews from the other staff that are here, so I thought I would apply and give it a go and see what it’s like.
What surprised you most about the recruitment process?
It wasn’t too hard; it was quite easy to fit in and get the job done. It didn’t really surprise me so much, but it was pretty easy and straightforward. I was given the contact information from another co-worker, and after an initial conversation and showed me some of the food safety policies; I came in the next day for an informal meeting. The next day I had an interview going over my cv and asking some important questions about how I would fit within the team. That same week I had a contract in my hand and started the following Monday. It was pretty quick; there wasn’t much waiting around.
What would you tell others looking to apply for a role here?
Go ahead. I have actually already told someone to get in and apply. I understand my mate dropped their CV the other day, and it sounds like that is going well. I tell anyone to come. If they are a reliable sort of worker, then they would probably like it here.
The first day can be a bit big, with the induction, tour, getting your uniform/gear setup. What stuck out the most to you during this whirlwind of a day?
Trying to remember to put everything on, but I am starting to get into a routine. Also just adapting to the shift work, it’s something I have never done before, but I am finding a few days in, it’s becoming pretty easy. When I first walked in, they met me, kitted me up with all my safety gear and then took me for a tour of the factory. It was a bit hard to hear at first with earmuffs on, but there was time to get used to it and ask questions. It is pretty easy to get lost and overwhelmed, but the guys are super friendly. I was taken back to the office, and Paul reviewed the food safety stuff with me. Cross-contamination and managing things that could cause allergies is super important, but not too hard to understand.
How do you feel you have settled in the first few days/hours/weeks in the role?
I am definitely feeling settled now that I am in a bit of a rhythm. I know what I am actually doing, working with a good bunch of guys and everyone gets along, so we don’t get frustrated with each other, it’s nice that if someone makes a mistake, it’s not really a problem, as long as it’s not too critical. You know we usually get along, and we prepare everything before each other too, so it flows nicely You learn on the job trying things. I was paired up to cook with a team leader who worked with me and showed me where everything is kept, slowly, as I got more in control I would start to do more and more without help and set up to learn how to and why we do things and troubleshoot along the way.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced so far since starting?
Some things that go down one of the machines can cause issues if you don’t take care. I haven’t had the issue myself yet. But, someone showed me how to do it to avoid it and have it work more efficient, less strain on your arms and stuff.
What excites you the most about the role and working with FoodFlo?
I enjoy the physical part of work really. It’s something I have been doing for years, and I don’t think I could do an office job or anything. The repetition is good too; it’s quite easy to learn. Plus there are so many different things to do and make. Even though the systems are similar. It’s fun and quite amazing. Factory work is actually pretty rewarding. When you get along with the team it’s pretty enjoyable. Plus there’s taste testing! It’s pretty neat to go into the grocery store and see some of the things I have helped make.
What else would you like to add/share?
It’s a good working place, with good employers. People look after you so why wouldn’t you want to work here!