Building our profile with Workplaces & Contract Caterers
Here at Smart Soda we understand the importance of providing a drinks platform that is innovative, sustainable, compact, healthier and easy for your teams and customers to use. We know we have a great product. But who are the people behind the idea? How did they come about building this disruptive healthier drinks brand in the UK? More importantly – what is their favourite flavour!
Find all the answers and more in a series of short blogs introducing you to the Smart Soda team members. Second up – Richard Macadam, our champion of Smart Soda drinks dispensers into the office, facilities and contract catering environments.
Where did you grow up?
I was born in Kent and up until the age of 30 spent much of my life moving around, I went to 9 schools, lived in 4 countries and 10 counties in the UK. I finally settled down in 2005 and live in a small village just outside Petersfield, in the heart of the South Downs and only 6 miles from the beautiful South Coast.
Did you always want to work in the Hospitality Industry?
Yes for sure, from the age of 14. I started working part time and by the age of 18 was running the restaurant in my local hotel. I joined a management training program after my A-levels and spent 4 years at the Grand Hotel in Brighton.
Who has been your biggest influence?
As far as values, relationships, and outlook then my mum for sure, she came from a huge family and so taught me to never take anything for granted, you have to fight for what you believe in. With regards to work ethic and entrepreneurship then its my Dad. He was very focused and driven and has always been a great mentor for me, I have been lucky to have two great parents.
In three words, how would friends describe you?
Determined – Resilient – Loyal
How did your career lead you to where you are now?
I have worked in the drinks industry for the last 5 years and with Ian Webb (our Commercial Director) for much of the last 12 years. We work brilliantly as a team and when the opportunity came along to bring Smart Soda to the UK and Europe I knew it was going to be too good an opportunity to miss.
What are you most proud of achieveing?
In the hospitality and restaurant industry the pinnacle is to achieve a Michelin star. I managed a fantastic country house in Sussex that achieved many awards but for sure the star was the ultimate accolade. I ran a team that have all gone onto to achieve many career highlights seeing them flourish through my mentoring and guidance has also been a personal highlight.
What most interested you in joining Smart Soda?
For me it was the opportunity to bring an innovative product to market, taking it from concept to launch has been both challenging and rewarding. Smart Soda is unique as the worlds first alkaline water, vitamin infused, post mix system. It’s different but tastes amazing! To be part of a business that wants to make a difference to people’s health and also sustainability is really important to me and what makes us so special.
What do you like to do to relax?
Family is everything to me, I am blessed to have a fabulous wife and 2 older teenagers (who still like to hang out with the parents). I love cooking, have a great outdoor kitchen at home with a pizza oven and bbq, love socialising. I live close to the coast and it’s great to have the chance to spend many days at the Wittering’s with friends. I have a loyal springador, Rosie who is a great walking companion.
Favourite sports team?
Rugby has always been a massive part of my life, locally I coached Chichester juniors from under 6 to under 16. On a national basis my team is Northampton Saints, big rivals to my business partner Mark, which always leads to lots of banter in the office.
Favourite Smart Soda flavour?
If you are talking carbonated Smart Slushie, then the Strawberry Watermelon Zero is absolutely amazing, fresh and fruity. As far as sodas, then Orange Crush, has a great smell, lovely light colour and tastes really refreshing.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of a Smart Soda Drinks Dispenser read our blog Office Benefits.
To meet Richard or another of our experienced team, contact us now by clicking the button below.
