It’s been five years since Lydia Lennon joined the Maxum team and we’re celebrating this milestone. We caught up with Lydia to have a chat about her journey and to talk through some of the highlights.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up on a property just outside Goondiwindi. There I spent my days mustering; sheep work and socialising with my family and friends. I came to Brisbane for school and at university completed my Undergraduate Degree in Microbiology and Masters in Epidemiology. I love learning, science and being kept on my toes and am incredibly grateful to be working at Maxum to be doing just that.
Tell us a little bit about your journey at Maxum Foods.
I started at Maxum right in the middle of covid, just after graduating from my undergrad. It was a little overwhelming stepping into my first job, but the team were incredibly supportive and patient. In 2022, I started my master’s degree, something I had always wanted to pursue, and was grateful that Maxum supported me to work part time while I studied. I completed my master’s this year and have since returned full time. It’s been such a joy to be back with the team every day!
What do you actually do at Maxum?
My role involves ensuring that the products we purchase comply with Australia and New Zealand’s biosecurity and food safety standards, as well as customer export requirements. This can include applying for import permits, confirming country eligibility, sending samples to the lab for testing and completing questionnaires. I work closely with Maxum’s sales, procurement and logistic teams, along with suppliers, customers, freight forwarders, DAFF, and laboratories. At Maxum, every day brings something new, and I absolutely love the variety.
What’s the one thing that has changed the most during your time at Maxum Foods?
The number of people! It’s been amazing to watch Maxum grow and evolve over the past 5 years. We’ve grown so much that we even had to move into a bigger office.
Nicknames: What do they call you in the office?
Lyd, Lyds and if you’re John, cuz.
What is the best ‘work perk’ at Maxum Foods?
Definitely the culture. I love having a catching up with the team when everyone flies in for events. Everyone is so unique and welcoming, and I feel so grateful to work for such a friendly company. A highlight every year is the morning of the Christmas party, seeing everyone arrive in their costume. I can only imagine what our Uber drivers must be thinking!
Do you have a favourite story from the last five years that you would like to share?
Any event where the whole Maxum teams gets together. I especially love our end-of-year celebrations when the Melbourne, New Zealand and Manila teams fly to Brisbane. It’s always so much catching up and having a laugh with everyone face to face.
What do you get up to when you’re not at work?
I love to stay busy! You’ll usually find me at the gym, working on uni, in a pilates class, catching up family or friends or watching the footy (Phins up)!
Congratulations on 5 years Lydia! We are looking forward to many more years with you on the team.
