In this exclusive Breaking Bread interview, we get to know Joel Skinner, A1 Cake Mixes Business Manager
What is your favourite type of baked good?
I’m quite traditional, I like an iced doughnut. Simple, but delicious.
What attracted you to the bakery industry?
I think the way that I’m wired is that I love fast pace. I love that two days are never the same. The landscape is always changing, and I know I can make things happen in bakery – a new concept could be on shelves in two or three weeks!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I’ve worked in the baking industry since I was 14 and I’ve been with Kluman & Balter for 15 years. I’ve enjoyed progression through the business into more senior roles, with the move to leading the A1 Cakes business made in 2025. I just love the journey that A1 Cakes is on.
Who did you admire growing up and why?
I’m a bit of a sports fan and growing up I was inspired by what Sir Alex Ferguson achieved in football. Professionally, my managing director in one of my early roles helped me grow from a boy into a man, so I’ve got a huge amount of admiration for him, even to this day.
How would you define success?
Personally, success to me is providing a platform for my children to grasp every opportunity they possibly can. That’s a personal aspiration, though similar in my professional life – if I’m helping people, then that’s how I define success. Being part of a team that’s growing is also key.
What’s a new activity you would love to try?
I wouldn’t describe myself as a thrill seeker, but I’d love to skydive and maybe do another bungee jump. I did my first last year over the River Avon in Bristol.
How would your friends or family describe you?
Very ambitious, incredibly loyal, and they’d probably say I wear my heart on my sleeve. I’m a very transparent kind of person, and I would do anything for anybody.
Describe your ideal Sunday…
An ideal Sunday would be taking the dog for a walk in the morning with the children. I love cooking, so I’d make a Sunday roast, followed by a few pints with my friends in the evening and then get an early night watching a film in bed.
If you could move to another country, which and why?
It’s between Japan or New Zealand. My friends have visited Japan, and they’ve all commented on how clean and organised it is, and how respectful everybody was. Crime is very, very low. Everything’s organised and in its place. And I love the shared cultural value of helping other people. Nothing’s ever too much trouble.
What was the last film you saw at the cinema? Did you like it?
I watched Home Alone at the cinema two years ago. Our local cinema was showing it, so I took the children to watch it. It’s an old film, but it’s my favourite Christmas film by a million miles.
What would you like to do this summer?
I’m visiting Mexico for three weeks with my family. I’m looking forward to a little R&R. One of my kids has just got into golf and he enjoys playing with me. So, I’d like to play a few rounds this summer too.
