MEET THE FLORENCE ROBY TEAM: ANDY
As we continue with our meet the team blog series, we talk to Florence Roby’s long-standing Cutter and CAD Technician, Andy. A steady hand behind the scenes, Andy turns designs into precise, production-ready garments, making it look much easier than it is.
Name: Andy Whittle
Job title: Cutter and CAD Technician
How long have you been working at Florence Roby? Since 2018
Tell us a little bit about the job you do…
My role is a bit of a mixed bag. I cut patterns from fabric using paper lays, so the sewing team can bring garments to life. Alongside that, I handle all the digital CAD pattern work – creating new styles, tweaking existing ones, grading and putting together product specs. I also manage the fabric library, create marker lay plans and keep track of material usage.
We’re starting to explore 3D modelling for samples, which could be a real game changer – less guesswork, more precision. On top of all that, I get stuck into general maintenance and goods-in deliveries… so it’s fair to say I don’t get bored!
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day starts with getting my workload from Chloe, then it’s straight into planning – working out lay plans, calculating material usage and getting everything recorded.
After that, it’s plotting, laying up fabric on the cutting table, cutting out all the different styles and sizes, and bundling them up ready for the sewing team. It’s quite a process, but there’s something very satisfying about seeing it all come together and knowing I measured everything right!
What do you enjoy most about working for Florence Roby?
I like the hours of work and the atmosphere is very good; that’s a credit to the owners and the team who work here.
I also enjoy that my role is both rewarding and challenging. Turning a design into something precise and workable is a great feeling. CAD work especially keeps me on my toes; it has to be checked and double-checked, because one small mistake can lead to production issues later on down the line. It’s certainly brain-intensive at times, but it keeps my grey matter active!
What’s the most memorable moment you’ve had whilst working at Florence Roby?
It has to be “the big move.” Watching the entire factory being dismantled and then rebuilt at the new site was impressive. It was a huge operation; somehow we managed to get everything out with about an hour to spare before handover. Cutting it fine, but we made it.
What do you think sets Florence Roby apart from other uniform suppliers?
It comes down to quality, style and fit. Those three things really matter and we don’t cut corners on any of them.
What’s a skill you bring to the team that you’re particularly proud of?
I’ve built up a lot of experience over the years, especially from more than 20 years in the furniture industry. In many ways, it’s the same process – just a different product! I’d say I’m quite dynamic and thorough in how I work. Getting things right first time helps take a lot of pressure off further down the line and keeps everyone happy.
If you could switch jobs with anyone at the company for a day, who would it be and why?
It would have to be Jeanette, mainly so I could take the pressure off her for a day. Her role carries a lot of responsibility and it would be good to give her a bit of breathing space.
What was your favourite thing to do as a child?
To be honesty I’m that old now I can’t remember much of my childhood! I think it was just generally playing out in the street and the woods.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
Mind reading, definitely. Understanding what people are really thinking would make life a lot easier and probably save a few meetings along the way.
What’s your go-to comfort food?
Pies and pasties. I know I shouldn’t, but they’re my weakness.
What do you do when you want to relax?
Watching YouTube, going fishing, or heading out for a walk. I’ve also converted an old works van into a day camper, so I like taking that out for overnight trips.
If you could host a talk show, who would be your first guest?
That’s a tough one… maybe Jesus. That would definitely be an interesting conversation!
What’s the weirdest thing on your desk right now?
Magnifying glasses. Turns out small print doesn’t get easier with time or age!