Drivers at Pall-Ex Groups’ Central Hub are integral to keeping the network running, as the core of the Pall-Ex Group network they demonstrate reliability, efficiency and a positive, can-do attitude.
We spoke to HGV drivers Rohan Ellis, Nathan Iliffe and Kirill Sapelkin to find out how they have progressed in their careers since beginning in the transport industry and what they enjoy the most.
Rohan Ellis
When did you begin your career in the transport industry and what job roles have you worked in previously?
I have been at Pall-Ex Group for almost 20 years and I started working as an FLT driver before moving to becoming a Shunter driver. I then received a promotion to Senior Supervisor, then Yard Marshall, before finally getting my license to work as an LGV Class 1 driver.
What skills have you learnt since being in your current role?
I have learnt a lot of skills and knowledge from the Pall-Ex CPC training course which has helped me to become a better driver. I would like to say thank you to the Pall-Ex transport team for their support in my progression.
What may surprise people about your role?
How dedicated I am to my job.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Working with the Pall-Ex team to provide the best service to every customer we deliver to.
Have there been any challenges you’ve faced in your role?
Every day can be a challenging day but with hard work, dedication and teamwork from the Pall-Ex team, we get it done.
Why do you think the transport industry is so important?
Because we move freight around the world every day in order to meet customers’ needs and put a smile on their face.
Nathan Iliffe
When did you begin your career in the transport industry and what job roles have you worked in previously?
I started my career in transport in 2016 and began working for Brakes delivering food to schools and pubs plus other outlets.
What skills have you learnt since being in your current role?
I’ve become a lot more capable in my driving and I have also learnt how to assess others on their driving as an added skill.
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
At the moment, I’m mainly following a set route but it can change at any time.
What may surprise people about your role?
The amount of responsibility that you have on your shoulders as a HGV driver.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Being on my own and independent whilst out on the roads, as well as challenging myself to progress.
Have there been any challenges you’ve faced in your role?
Many. We are faced with challenges every day. HGV Drivers have the responsibility of driving and anticipating the cars around them to stay safe.
Why do you think the transport industry is so important?
Nothing would be stocked anywhere without the transport industry operating as it does, so it is essential.
Kirril Sapelkin
When did you begin your career in the transport industry and what job roles have you worked in previously?
Seven years ago I joined Pall-Ex as an agency worker and have since worked my way up to become a Class 1 HGV driver.
What skills have you learnt since being in your current role?
I’ve learnt how to correctly load and secure freight, health and safety protocols and how to perform well in high-intensity environments.
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
I usually complete set runs.
What may surprise people about your role?
Despite the fact that I am completing the same run every day, there can be a massive variance in the time it takes due to traffic or other extenuating circumstances.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The team I work with are great, special mentions to Craig, Clayton, Luke, Carol and Anita for always providing the best support and guidance.
Interested in finding out more about the vacancies available at Pall-Ex Group? Visit: https://www.pallex.co.uk/vacancies