From farming in Africa to driving some of the UK’s most exciting cars, Tom’s journey is anything but ordinary. These days, he’s part of the 24-7 Staffing team, travelling the country as a press fleet driver, and if his stories are anything to go by, there’s never a dull moment!
We caught up with Tom to find out more about his fascinating life, his love of the open road, and the joy of “living the dream”.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background before joining 24-7 Staffing?
In short, I’ve been very fortunate to have had what I believe to be a very interesting life! I was brought up in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) during the war. Our family farm was in a place called Centenary in the north-east of the country, and life there was anything but quiet. We were attacked several times with RPG7 rockets and small arms fire, and sadly, we lost several family members during that time.
After the war, I went to South Africa for schooling and was lucky enough to attend Diocesan College in Cape Town. Once I finished, I spent a gap year in the UK back in 1986. I worked in Soho and the West End – it was the height of the punk and skinhead scene. Quite an experience!
When I returned home, my mother had sold our family farm following my father’s tragic murder, so I began working as a farm assistant. I eventually became a manager, leased my own land, and in 1999, managed to buy a farm of my own. Unfortunately, we lost everything in the early 2000s during the Mugabe-led land invasions.
With my wife, two young children, and just four suitcases, I moved back to the UK and started over. My first job was the night shift at Sainsbury’s stacking shelves, but I quickly found my way into property refurbishment in Chelsea and Hyde Park. That opened the door to construction and eventually property development back in South Africa. I started my own estate agency and development business, building and selling luxury homes in secure estates around the Natal Midlands.
Fast-forward to 2024, our children had all moved to the UK for university and never returned to South Africa, so me and my wife immigrated back. These days, I’m proud to be part of the 24-7 Staffing team!
What does a typical day look like for you?
When I’m not driving, I’m at home with my wonderful wife, Sarah. We actually sat next to each other in primary school and started dating when we were 18, so we’ve known each other forever
Every day begins with tea, breakfast, and a good chat about the world.
Then we take our dog, who came with us from South Africa, for a walk. After that, I might catch up with friends, check in on business interests, potter about in the garden if the sun’s out, or read. I’ve also joined the local bowls club, which I really enjoy.
You’ve seen a lot of the country through your work, do any places stand out?
It’s very difficult to name an outstanding or most interesting place. I love how I get to travel the countryside. The UK has so much beauty that people often overlook because they’re so busy surviving day-to-day.
I remember from my previous occasions of living here. The history, architecture, the people (when they have the time to chat) are all wonderful. There is nowhere in the world that I have been to that matches the English countryside on a bright, bitterly cold snow-covered day, or on a wonderful summer’s day. It’s just beautiful!
What keeps you company on the road? Music? Podcasts?
I gave Radio 2 about a week. Utter gibberish. They should be embarrassed! No one ever talks about the wonderful things in life, it’s always misery! I switched to Radio 4 and 5 pretty quickly. I mostly listen to podcasts as I like hearing real stories and life experiences.
He’s also a big fan of silence.
With electric vehicles, it’s lovely to just listen to the road. They’re so quiet that it gives you loads of time to contemplate. Welsh roads are the best for quiet tar.
What’s been your favourite vehicle to drive so far?
The Genesis GV90. Nothing beats it for comfort and style. It’s a really beautiful car.
Any memorable moments from your time on the road?
One day I stopped at a Co-op and saw two elderly gents sitting on a bench facing the shop. They were playing a daily game of car match where they’d face the Co-op, count ten shoppers going in, then try to match each one to their car on their exit. They even stopped me and confirmed for me what car I was driving! The loser had to buy the other a pint at the pub! I thought what a brilliant way to spend an afternoon with your friend. They were real car fanatics.
How would you describe working with 24-7 Staffing?
I’ve always enjoyed working with polite, efficient and interesting people. 24-7 are a great team to work with and are very enthusiastic – it’s contagious and it’s a pleasure.
How would you describe the job to someone looking for a similar role?
On my first day, I asked a fellow driver how he was, and his response was, ‘Living the dream!’ Having been self-employed for most of my life, I can honestly say I’m the one living the dream. It’s never too late and I love it.
At 24-7 Staffing, we love hearing stories like Tom’s – full of adventure, resilience, and good humour. Every driver we work with brings their own story to the road, and it’s people like Tom who remind us why we do what we do. If you’re looking for a role that offers freedom, variety, and a supportive team, please get in touch!
