Peak Seasoned: Clara Buckingham, Chief People Officer
Originally Published: 25 September 2025
Last Updated: 2 October 2025
Welcome to our first episode of Peak Seasoned, the series where we talk to leaders across J&J Global Fulfilment about how their teams contribute to a successful Peak period for both us and our clients.
First up, we have Clara Buckingham, Chief People Officer at J&J, who discusses how we look after our people during Peak, how we ensure we have the right skills in the right places, and why the Peak period is a challenging yet hugely rewarding time for the business.
Plus, Clara shares her favourite Peak memory!
In this article
Peak Planning: Showtime for J&J
For Clara, Peak always comes with a “real excitement and buzz in the air.” She describes it as having a “Showtime feel,” when every part of the business is working in sync to prepare.
“We start planning really early,” Clara explains. “There’s a full timetable of preparation: target setting, recruitment, and lots of meetings. Every single department has full focus on what we need to deliver a successful Peak.”
Supporting Our People
Clara has seen many Peaks during her six years at J&J. The People team plays a huge role in keeping spirits high and ensuring well-being throughout this intense period.
From engagement initiatives like DJs, themed playlists, and costumes handing out chocolates, to survival packs filled with treats, there’s always something to keep energy levels up. Each year also brings a new surprise for the team.
“We know Peak is demanding. People are working hard and often long hours,” Clara says. “That’s why we’re constantly checking in on performance, but also on welfare and wellbeing.”
A Favourite Peak Memory
Asked for a standout Peak moment, Clara recalls a day when Chris Baker from LDC (J&J’s investment partner) joined the team in the packing area.
“We had a DJ dropping tracks like Tammy Wynette and ‘Purple Rain.’ Chris started singing along, and before we knew it, the whole packing line was joining in. We were smashing out orders and singing together — it was a fantastic atmosphere.”
Despite the early mornings and chilly warehouse temperatures, Clara highlights the sense of camaraderie: “Everybody working shoulder to shoulder, from the CEO to the head office team — we’re all in it together.”
Scaling Up for Success
Behind the scenes, Peak also means a huge increase in volume, which requires careful planning. The People team works hand in hand with Operations to forecast demand, plan rotas, and make sure the right skills and numbers are in place.
“We use flexible labour models and bring in a huge number of temporary employees,” Clara explains. “We’re well-known employers in the areas we operate, so we’re able to bring on experienced people who know how to deliver. That makes all the difference for our clients.”
Challenging but Rewarding
For Clara, Peak is “challenging yet hugely rewarding.” It’s a time when the culture of J&J shines, with teams pulling together, looking out for one another, and delivering outstanding service for clients during the busiest time of the year.
Want to join us for Peak?
There’s still time to secure a slot with J&J ahead of Peak 2025. Get in touch today for a no-obligation consultation about how we can help your business grow.
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