10 Years of Growth, Grit and Gratitude
At Prima, we know that great people are at the heart of everything we do — and we’re lucky to have some truly exceptional team members who’ve grown with us over the years. One of those people is Michael Knox, our Export Manager, who’s celebrating 10 years with the business. From stepping into his first full-time role to leading international growth, Michael’s journey reflects the ambition, resilience and passion that define Prima. Here, he looks back on a decade of change, challenges and opportunity — and shares what it’s meant to be part of the mix.
From France to the Factory: Where It All Began
Looking back, it’s hard to believe it’s been a whole decade since I first walked through the doors at Prima. It’s been quite a journey — not just in terms of career progression, but also personal growth. When I joined in 2015, I’d just come back from a year teaching kids in France and was figuring out my next move.
I’ll never forget my first meeting with Nagma during Easter half-term. I was only home for a few weeks, but that conversation set everything in motion. By the end of the school year, I was back — this time as an Export Coordinator. The rest is history.
Learning by Doing (and Fast)
At the start, it was just me and Nagma. The previous coordinator had moved on, so I was thrown in at the deep end — learning everything about export documentation, customs, and all the unique rules for different countries. It was a real baptism of fire, but looking back, it gave me a solid foundation.
Since then, I’ve picked up a lot commercially from both Nagma and Nima. That insight — paired with the trust I’ve been given — helped me grow into roles with more responsibility and, eventually, into Export Manager. I’ve had the privilege of travelling for trade shows and market visits, representing Prima around the world, and building strong relationships across cultures. Those experiences have shaped who I am today.
Growing with the Business
The Prima I joined in 2015 looks very different to the Prima of today — and that’s a good thing. The company has never stood still. Whether it’s growing our site, evolving our operations, or expanding our presence globally, we’re always looking ahead.
Back when I started, we didn’t even have a marketing team — now we’ve got a full setup, including a London office. The ambition of the business has always been clear: keep moving forward, keep improving, and never settle. I’ve loved being part of that mindset.
Challenges, Changes and a Team That Pulls Together
Of course, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. With growth comes challenges — like managing site expansions while keeping things running or navigating major disruptions like Brexit and COVID. But through it all, what’s stood out to me is how everyone at Prima pulls together. We adapt, support each other, and find ways to turn obstacles into opportunities.
A Word to the New Starters
If you’re just starting out at Prima, my advice is simple: get stuck in. Be open, be adaptable, and learn from the people around you. There’s a huge amount of experience here, and the company genuinely gives you room to grow — if you’re willing to take it.
For me, it’s been a decade of progress, learning, and plenty of great memories. I’m proud of how far I’ve come — and I’m excited for what’s next.
