PUBLISHED 18 SEPTEMBER 2023
The latest in our series of Meet the Team posts takes us to the front of the office and the man who keeps it all running smoothly.
John Gaitens is our Executive Assistant and the man you all know and love from your years of phone calls and requests that he assists with.
But there’s much more to John than that, and here he tells us about his time as a soldier and his incredible appetite for reading (and RAW energy drinks!).
Tell us a bit about yourself
I was born and raised, in Glasgow traveled about a bit, and now live in Paisley. Found myself working for Clydebuilt through a Job Site. In my previous working-life I swerved in the Army, Prometric Tester covering Scotland and the Isles, Bookkeeper, Office Manager and collections/sales for Prudential Insurance.
What is your job title and can you describe what you do?
My title is Executive Assistant but my job is Office Manager, main job being answer the phone/reception, liaison with suppliers/customers, PIN/ID label production, purchase/maintenance of hardware i.e. scanners, supply of labels, stationary.
How long have you worked for Clydebuilt?
I first joined the company 18 years ago in November and haven’t left yet.
What is the favourite project or product that you have worked on with Clydebuilt?
I enjoy working with the Casio scanners and loading the barcoding software on them plus some troubleshooting sometimes.
What’s your drink of choice in the office?
Tea, or sometimes a cold glass of water from the cooler in the office. Occasionally a can of RAW Energy Drink – no energy but it tastes really good
What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid?
Always wanted to be a soldier, got my wish (22 years of it) – should have picked something easier.
What website do you visit the most?
Google! BBC News
What was the last book you read?
No idea…I read 3 or 4 books a week. Usually from the charity shops locally.
Where are we likely to find you outside of work?
Hillwalking is my favourite pastime or just walking around town.