We’re delighted to celebrate the upcoming retirement of Production Manager Paul Baker following 38 years of loyal service with BDH Tullford. It this article, he tells us about his career, experiences and what he has enjoyed most about his job.
You’ve been with us for nearly 4 decades! Let’s start with an introduction to when you joined the business.
I started working with WH Hutchins & Son back in 1984, working for David Hutchins’ parents. I worked in the collating department putting books together and making cups of tea.
Once I had gained experience there, I learned how to work the offset machine and then started guillotining. Over the years, I’ve done most roles, including driving the van to do deliveries.
I’ve been a Production Manager for about 10 years now but I’ve been lucky to do most roles within the business, which gives me great oversight. I can see things from both sides, as the printer and as the production manager. I know from experience what can be done and can help the team to get things sorted.
What have you enjoyed most about your role?
Things move really fast here. You can work on different machines and different jobs, so no two days are the same. There’s real variety. I’ve known people to leave the business and then come back because they got bored in their new roles!
Plus, the team in the factory is great. We’re not a large company and we all muck in to help out when we get busy.
What have been the biggest changes in the printing industry since the 1980s?
The biggest changes have been the technology and the machines. When I started work on the litho printer and the offset machines, they were small and could only handle A4 paper. Now we can handle huge large-format print jobs.
The Genius UV printer we have has been a real asset too. It can manage the whole printing process, which makes our work easier and more efficient. When it was first installed I worked with the engineer and the manufacturer to ensure it was set up the way we need it, modifying the rollers to our needs. There are only 3 or 4 Genius machines in the UK so I’ve actually consulted with other companies to help them get up and running!
What sets BDH Tullford apart from other printers and POS manufacturers?
One of the best things about us is we never say no. If a client asks for something, we’ll find a solution that meets their needs, which is great for our reputation.
For example, we’re currently working with a longstanding client to manufacture a promotional item that is quicker and cheaper to produce than their existing product. For the past 18 months, we’ve been developing the product with their R&D teams to make sure it’s suitable for the end user. I really enjoy that.
What do you get up to outside of work?
Outside of work I walk, fish and run. I also run South Norfolk Short Mat Bowls and I’m also captain of the Hempnall team. We’ve won the league 14 times!
I have an allotment as well, which is great for meeting people and growing my own veg.
I’m looking forward to retirement so I can spend more time on my hobbies!
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