Jessica first joined McGhee’s Bakery on a work experience placement in January 2020.

Five years later, she is now the company’s Head of HR, helping support the people behind one of Scotland’s best-known family bakeries.

Jessica, 28, joined the business while completing her master’s degree in Human Resources. At the time, the HR department consisted of just one person, meaning she quickly found herself immersed in the day-to-day reality of supporting a busy and growing organisation.

“When I first joined, there was only one person in the HR team. Because there was so much going on, I was thrown in at the deep end. It was without a doubt the best way to learn.”

Since then, Jessica has grown alongside the business as the team has expanded and the company has continued to evolve.

Today she leads the HR function across McGhee’s, helping ensure the right systems, support and culture are in place for the hundreds of people who work across the bakery’s sites.

“As the team has grown, there’s been an increasing focus on HR. We’re currently rolling out a new system which will help support the next stage of growth.”

For Jessica, one of the things that makes McGhee’s special is the trust placed in its people.

“I am so proud to step into this role. Trust is massive in any workplace, but that’s especially true in a family business. They value attitude over age – people who genuinely care about the business and are willing to work hard.”

Her journey from work experience student to senior leadership team member reflects McGhee’s long-standing belief in developing talent from within.

“It’s been amazing to grow with the business. When people are given opportunities early on, it makes you want to give your best every day.”

People of McGhee’s is a series celebrating the people behind Scotland’s local baker as the business enters its 90th year.