International Women's Day

The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is Inspire Inclusion. When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment. Our female colleagues at BAKO are all truly inspiring, some of them have taken the time to share a little bit about themselves and their roles. 

Julie Bainbridge - Regional Sales Manager (Wimbledon) 

I joined BAKO in March 2019 in the position Area Sales Manager. Dealing with a lot of the same customers, I quickly settled into the role. BAKO attitude "We don't have a business if we don't have customers" and their priority for excellent customer service, very much mirrored my own feelings, so I knew I was at the right company. In August 2022 I was promoted to Regional Sales Manager managing a passionate, tenacious team of people who some I have managed before and over the years we have all grown and learnt from each other. I have seen many changes in my 35 years of selling bakery ingredients. Can you believe that sugar used to be at £8.00 per bag?! But I like to think that my integrity and love of the job, as well as the relationships I have with customers and colleagues, will continue to keep me motivated. 

Hayley Guy - Supply Chain Manager (Durham)

I joined BAKO in 1996 originally as Receptionist. Over the years my role progressed to Assistant Buyer, Buying Office Supervisor to where I am now Supply Chain Manager. I have seen so many changes within Bako over the years including 3 new ERP systems! Every day brings new challenge and I feel very privileged to work with great colleagues over our 3 sites. 

Joanna Jurczyk-Klosowska - Accounts Payable & Receivable Manager - (Preston)

I joined BAKQ in February 2023 to take over the Credit Control Team. I am leading the team to ensure effective collection process are in place and professional relationship with customers is maintained. I am responsible for the team of 7 individuals which have been great support for the past year. I manage the month-to-month functions of AR review, credit insurance limits and support the team on a daily basis. Favourite Quote - "Without teamwork, there's no success. By working together, we accomplish a lot more. Therefore, I feel lucky to work with such a great team.

Sian Middlebrough - Purchase Ledger Clerk (Preston)

I joined BAKO in 2015 in the position of Purchase Ledger Clerk within a small but busy team. It was the great team spirit and atmosphere within the Finance Department that made me feel right at home! I have progressed in my role, and I am now managing my own ledgers for BAKO Durham. This has given me a more rounded role within the Purchase Ledger Team, and I am enjoying having more responsibility. The business is always moving forward and that's an exciting thing to be part of. 

I was also very involved with BAKO's first chosen Charity Fundraising Team where we pledged to Raise £50k for Macmillan and just about got there! I have continued to be part of the Charity Engagement Team and see it as my way of giving back. "I feel very lucky to be part of such a great team, I am surrounded by fantastic work colleagues who all support and help each other every day".