A 26-Year Journey at Bolton Food - Together, We Grow

Reflecting on your 26-year career at Bolton Food, what has been the most rewarding part of your career, and how has the feeling of togetherness within the team contributed to your success?

“The most rewarding part of my career has been the opportunity to work with amazing people and see how we’ve grown and evolved together as a team,” he says.

He recalls his early days at Bolton Food with a fond smile. "When I first joined, we were a small, passionate team with a shared vision. It didn’t take long to realize that the feeling of togetherness was our greatest strength. When you work with people who genuinely care about each other and share your values, you feel supported and motivated to do your best every single day."

For Oscar, this sense of camaraderie has been the cornerstone of his career. “I’m incredibly grateful to be part of a team that not only strives for excellence but also fosters an environment where everyone feels valued and respected,” he reflects.
 

Over the years, you’ve risen through many positions within Bolton Food, from Quality Control to Production Manager. What has been the most challenging aspect of your career path, and how has it contributed to your growth?

Transitioning from a technical role to a leadership position was no small feat for Oscar. He pauses for a moment and reflects deeply. “The shift from focusing solely on accuracy and detail in Quality Control to managing a team and making strategic decisions as a leader was a challenge,” he admits.

Learning to delegate, trust his team, and balance technical expertise with soft skills pushed him out of his comfort zone. But it was a challenge he embraced wholeheartedly. “This transition taught me resilience and adaptability,” he explains. “It forced me to grow both personally and professionally, and it deepened my understanding of what it means to lead with empathy and vision.”
 

How have you approached implementing operational improvements over the years, and what impact have your initiatives had on Bolton Food’s culture and operations?

Oscar’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: listen, learn, and lead by example. “I’ve always believed in the importance of working closely with my team to identify areas for improvement,” he shares. “When people feel involved in the process, they take ownership of the changes, which leads to greater commitment and better results.”

He recalls fostering a culture of experimentation and learning. “We encourage everyone to try new ideas, even if they don’t always work out,” he says. “Failures are opportunities to learn, and this mindset has driven innovation and efficiency within our operations.”

Oscar is proud of the significant improvements his initiatives have brought to Bolton, from enhanced quality and efficiency to a more motivated and empowered workforce. “It’s not just about numbers; it’s about creating a culture where people feel inspired to give their best,” he emphasizes.
 

With such a long-standing connection to Bolton, what motivates you every day, and what role do your colleagues and team dynamics play in that motivation?

Oscar’s passion is clear as he answers. “What motivates me every day is knowing that what we do here matters. We’re not just producing food, we’re making a difference in people’s lives around the world,” he says with pride.

But it’s the people who truly keep him going. “My colleagues are like family to me. Together, we’ve celebrated successes and faced challenges, always supporting each other along the way.”

He speaks warmly about the team dynamic. “Collaboration, communication, and mutual respect are at the heart of everything we do. It’s incredible to see how each team member’s unique perspective and skills come together to achieve something greater than ourselves,” he says with a smile.
 

Looking ahead, what advice would you give to new team members who want to build a lasting and impactful career at Bolton Food?

Oscar’s advice is both practical and heartfelt. “Never stop learning,” he begins. “Curiosity and a willingness to grow are essential. Ask questions, seek feedback, and  be open to new opportunities.”

He also emphasizes the importance of building relationships. “Get to know your colleagues, understand their needs, and support them in any way you can. Teamwork is the foundation of success at Bolton,” he says.

Finally, he encourages new team members to take risks and stay true to their values. “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone or make mistakes; that’s where growth happens. And always act with integrity, even when it’s hard. Your career should be a reflection of who you are.”