Ricardo has worked as a driver for TJ for three years and prides himself on always giving 100%. Outside of work Ricardo enjoys cooking great food and practising Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He’s passionate about motorsport and loves getting his 600 bhp car on the track whenever the opportunity arises; he’s even driven on the famous Nurburgring track in Germany!
I start the day by giving my vehicle a thorough check over to ensure it is in full working order and in the right condition to get on the road safely. I drive skip lorries, roll-on-roll-offs and sweepers so my daily tasks depend upon which vehicle I am assigned to that day. My days usually revolve around deliveries and collections, which could be at industrial and construction sites, quarries or domestic properties. If I’m sweeping, I will be assigned to a specific site to ensure the entrance and surrounding roads are kept clean and free of construction debris or similar. There’s a lot of customer liaison involved, which I enjoy. I’m always polite, friendly and professional and I prioritise safety at all times.
I started my career as a control operative in a factory and although I enjoyed the role, I didn’t like being stuck inside a factory all day. I’m passionate about food and drink so I decided to move into the hospitality industry. I’m from Portugal and worked in hospitality roles there for a few years, before deciding to come to the UK in search of better job opportunities.
The idea was to come for six months and build up a bit of a nest egg to take home, but I enjoyed it so much I stayed and it’s now been 14 years! I secured a job as an Operations Manager so I was doing well, but the hours were 24-7 and I eventually decided it was too much so I started looking for another job.
That’s when I decided to apply for the driver job with TJ; I thought I would enjoy it as it enables you to be out and about so I went for it and was successful. I took my driver assessments during the first week, then started work. I had training on how to operate and drive the different vehicles and we undertake annual training to keep our knowledge on rules and safety procedures up to date.
When I get given a tricky task but somehow manage to achieve it is very rewarding! It’s also a great feeling when customers tell me I’ve done a good job and that they’re happy with the service I’ve provided. Working for TJ is enjoyable and there’s a family feel to the company that makes you feel welcome, valued and more than just a number. The recent pay rise was well-received too – it feels like we’re being rewarded for our hard work!
It sometimes worries me when I have a big job load, as I don’t want to disappoint any customers, but I always try my best to get everything done on the assigned day. I want to do well for myself as well as for the company so that they continue to thrive.
I pride myself on giving 100% every single time. I always try my absolute best and I must admit that it annoys me if external factors such as bad weather or traffic stop me from achieving 100% of my goals. I’m very honest and I always give it my all.
This job has enabled me to stay in the UK, which I’m pleased about as it’s a great place to be. The people I work with are great and there’s a good team atmosphere. TJ drivers are paid well and on time every month and if I ever have a question for the management I feel comfortable asking and I always get a timely response. I also love the job security TJ provides.
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