Transport

Steve Thomas

Job title: Driver

Length of service: 13 Years

Location: Andover

I started here in September 1995, having spent 24 years in the army. I came out and originally went to work in an office. In all honesty, I really didn’t like the job at all – the nine to five routine – and the general monotony.

So I left and began driving for an agency. I did some contract work for Office Depot and realised this is what I loved to do so I applied for a job and was delighted to get it!

Getting into that van every morning, driving my own route and, the biggest pleasure of all, is looking after my own customers. I do a lot of desktop deliveries, and this is the best part of my job because I get to interact with the people who actually buy the stationery.

I feel like my day wouldn’t be the same without having daily contact with these people – a smile and a joke and general conversation.

I have built up a solid relationship with all my customers and so I can honestly say, on the odd occasion when I suddenly stop delivering to them, I find it very upsetting.

Because I’ve been here 13 years now it’s fair to say I’ve seen some change. Looking back from when I started and we had a fleet of 16 drivers and 16 vans –today we have more than 30 drivers and vans. I feel a great sense of achievement and pride. I am proud to work for Office Depot and know that I make a difference to our customers.