Get to know Tom Southall, Deputy Chief Executive, Cold Chain Federation
How did you end up working in this industry?
The cold chain industry is energy intensive, so I initially started working with the Cold Chain Federation on a consultancy basis from a large engineering firm to support on technical energy guidance, but I was quickly hooked and I’m still here as a permanent member of staff 7 years later.
What do you most enjoy about your job?
Meeting, working and supporting a wide range of different businesses whilst bringing government awareness to an undervalued but absolutely essential part of the supply chain. I also get to work on a wide variety of subject matter from energy, net zero, trade, transport and food safety to technical refrigeration and building standards which means I’m always learning new things.
What other industry would you like to work in and why?
Why would I want to look beyond logistics…! I have a degree in Marine Biology so probably something sea or conservation related.
How do you define success?
Working hard to achieve a positive outcome, either for yourself or for the benefit of others.
Who did you admire growing up and why?
I’m not sure I could name a specific person, but I have always admired people who have a clear goal for what they want from life, or a career. I didn’t really have this in my earlier years, but luckily it has turned out pretty well.
