We talk to Lee Buckley, our Exports Manager, about how PFE’s commitment to both its customers and employees sets it apart, and the significant influence his parents’ values and example have had on his approach to work and life.
Number of years in the industry?
11 years, the same time that I’ve been working for PFE.
What’s your journey been getting to PFE?
PFE was my first official job. I started as a trainee export clerk on May 7th, 2013. Before that, I did a few odd jobs, like labouring and gardening, while trying to figure out what I wanted to do. I briefly pursued a sports course but didn’t see many opportunities in that field. So, I signed up with an apprenticeship provider, went for a few interviews, and PFE was one of them. At the time, I knew nothing about shipping – I don’t think many people do unless they’re in the industry. But I was interviewed by Dave and Veronica Girling alongside the office manager and thought the job sounded interesting. I must have done something right in the interview because I was offered the job, and I’ve been here ever since.
I started in the Manchester office working on exports with Bob Brookfield, who was the export department manager at the time. I was brought in to assist him, and Bob taught me everything I know. He retired in March 2017, but I’m very grateful for everything he showed me and for the opportunity he gave me. After Bob’s retirement, I was promoted to department manager.
Even though I’m based in Manchester, I don’t feel isolated from the main office in Witham. We’ve also got the Liverpool office, which I visit a couple of times a month. That helps keep me connected and in the loop with everything that’s going on.
What does your role at PFE entail?
In short, I’m responsible for handling export shipments via sea, air, and road from start to finish. There are several layers to what that involves, but it often begins with liaising with customers and agents to understand their shipping requirements. From that point, it can vary from obtaining shipping quotes for shipments ranging from small parcels to pallets to containers, to working with carriers and hauliers for vessel space, container positioning, and cargo collections, coordinating with airlines for space, bookings, and post-flight information. I also manage export customs clearances and handle the issuing of the relevant export documentation. What makes my role unique is that I oversee the entire process, which gives me a broad knowledge base and keeps things interesting because no two days are the same.
The UK may not be the manufacturing powerhouse it once was, but we still handle a variety of exports, and there’s increasing demand for exports. I manage a broad range of commodities from sportswear to scientific equipment to cars.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I really enjoy the variation – each day is a little different. I like communicating with customers, talking to airlines and carriers, and looking after our customer base. Even when problems arise, finding a solution is something I take pride in. I always aim to deliver a high standard of work to my customers, and that’s what I enjoy the most – getting things done within the required time frame.
Problem-solving is a big part of the job, especially since there are so many factors outside of your control. But finding solutions, despite those challenges, is really rewarding. Since 2019, we’ve faced increased challenges, whether it’s limited space with carriers, fluctuating prices, or other unexpected issues. You just have to be adaptable and find the best possible solution. I really enjoy that aspect of it, solving problems and overcoming tricky situations.
What makes PFE different from the rest?
In terms of PFE exports, you’ve got a single point of contact, which is quite rare these days. In this digital age, it can sometimes be difficult to get hold of an individual. But at PFE, you’re dealing with one person from start to finish, and I think that personal touch makes a big difference.
Another thing that sets PFE apart is the longevity of the staff. A lot of us have been with the company for many years, and I think that says a lot about how it treats its employees. When you look at a company and see that staff turnover is low, it’s usually a good sign. It shows that people are happy and well looked after, and I think it’s been a key factor in PFE’s long-term success.
What are three words that describe PFE?
FAMILY
PERSONAL TOUCH
DEDICATED
When I think about PFE, the first word that comes to mind is family. I know that might sound cliché, but it’s true. You’ve got Peter and Adam, and now their sons are involved in the business too. Working for a company with strong family values is something I really value, and that really stands out to me. It’s not just about the Collins family either – other employees have brought their family members into the business, and it’s great to see. PFE has a real family feel, and that’s reflected in how we work together.
This ties into the family feel as well. PFE places a strong emphasis on the personal touch, whether it’s in how we interact with our customers or with each other as colleagues. We’re always encouraged to bring that personal connection into our work, and that’s something that’s been a constant in my experience here.
The word dedicated applies to both PFE’s relationship with its customers and its employees. For all our customers, including several from the initial foundation of PFE, there’s a real dedication from PFE to ensure they’re well looked after. Equally, PFE is dedicated to its employees, and that commitment flows through the entire company. It’s difficult to fully put into words, but PFE’s dedication is something you feel in the way the company operates.
Do you have any future ambitions for PFE?
This year, we launched our new Less Than Container Load (LCL) service for exports from the UK to China. I’d like to increase the regularity of that service over time and eventually expand into different regions. Right now, my focus is on continuing to develop and build on the progress we’ve already made. There’s always going to be a demand for exports, and our customers will always need those services. My ambition is to keep improving and expanding not only as an individual but as a department, and it would be fantastic to see an expanded Manchester office in the future.
Who was your childhood hero and why?
For me, a hero is someone you can model yourself on – someone who sets a good example, with strong morals and values. That’s what I think defines a hero. So, I’d have to say both of my parents. Their beliefs in honesty, hard work, and treating others the way you’d like to be treated really shaped who I am. More than anything, they’ve always valued family above all else.
I’ve got a younger brother and an older sister, and growing up, my parents were our biggest supporters and role models. They instilled a strong work ethic in us and have been an example not only as parents but as a couple too – they’ve been married for 38 years. Seeing their dedication to each other and the love they share has been a huge influence on me. It’s been great growing up in that kind of environment, and I feel really lucky to have them. They probably wouldn’t call themselves heroes, but to me, they always will be.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I’d have to say my Mum and Dad’s Sunday/Roast dinner with homemade roast potatoes, mashed potatoes, carrots and swede, sprouts, cabbage, Yorkshire puddings – the full works! Roast chicken was my favourite accompanying meat, but we also varied with beef and pork. As a kid, we had it almost every Sunday, and this is something I now make for my own family.
What’s your favourite movie?
I wouldn’t say I’m a huge film buff, but like most people, I enjoy watching films from time to time. Recently, I watched Coach Carter, which is based on a true story. It’s a film about a high school basketball coach who takes over a team of teenagers who are struggling academically and not performing well on the court. The movie focuses on the importance of discipline, respect, and education, which sets it apart from your typical sports films. I really appreciated the message of the film, and I enjoy films when they’re based on true events.
