TO find yourself running a major company in your early twenties would sound like a daunting task to most, but for Rob Whitehead, this is where his journey in the food industry began.

Growing up in Uganda and moving from a boarding school in Kenya to the South of England at the age of 12, Rob went on to Keele University to study a degree in History and Politics.

He then worked in management consulting, before joining his father-in-law’s business, Wakefield-based Matthews Foods.

A year later Rob’s father-in-law was sadly diagnosed with dementia and Rob found himself on his own running the successful manufacturing company.

Somewhat a baptism of fire, Rob nevertheless thrived in the food industry growing the business from a £6 million to £38 million turnover.

After selling the business to Kerry Foods in 2005, Rob set up the Zubrance Group, from HornbeamPark in Harrogate, acquired Confection by Design and from this The Serious Sweet Company (SSC) was born.

Launched in Harrogate in 2012, SSC makes sugar-boiled confectionery, including fudge, for retailers’ own brands including Asda, Tesco and Harrods as well as its first consumer-facing confectionery brand, Ultimate English. The Zubrance Group now has three companies with a combined turnover of £28 million.

Speaking about the Ultimate English brand, Rob said: "I want to revitalise English sugar confectionery by bringing back traditional favourites in flavours and formats that meet modern consumer needs.

"Along the way I hope we make people smile because we certainly try to have fun. Yorkshire has its roots in confectionery with the Rowntree’s and Terry’s heritage close by, so it’s the perfect setting.

“Yorkshire is a great county full of opportunities in which to build lasting relationships with customers and other businesses.

“I love working with young, bright, enthusiastic people, which is what I get to do every day at SSC. They keep an old dog like me young and passionate.”

 

What job would you like to have other than your own and why?

“I’d own a sailing school; there’s nothing better than the pleasure and satisfaction of helping others love a sport you do. There’s also nothing like enjoying a good cup of tea, or a beer on an East coast river as the setting sun paints the sky red.”

Greatest achievement?

“It’s not particularly original but I definitely feel my greatest achievement is in bringing up two well-adjusted, talented sons. Your children are your legacy and I couldn’t be prouder of my two.”

What makes you most angry?

“People who don’t care about what they do; they see problems, not opportunities and go through life without any kind of passion for anything. True passion and enthusiasm for what you do will get you a long way in life, not just in business.”

Biggest mistake?

“My biggest regret was that I decided to work as a Saturday boy in M&S instead of playing rugby professionally. Although saying that, it’s where my interest in food started, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without making that choice – things could have turned out very differently!”

What do you need to make life complete?

“Young, dynamic, enthusiastic people.”

Why do you make a difference?

“I bring passion, enthusiasm and pace. I help people grow and have a keen interest in helping people be the best they can be.”

Epitaph

“Kept on trying”