Interview

A Day in the Life…Mircea-Daniel Petreus (Dan)

Welcome to our feature where people from many different roles in this industry take you through a typical day in their working life. This month, Fuel Oil News speaks with Mircea-Daniel Petrus (Dan), Tanker Driver at Watson Fuels and winner of the UKIFDA Driver of the Year Award 2024, to discover how Dan spends a typical day.

Watson Fuels A day in the life

MY ALARM GOES OFF AT…

My alarm usually goes off at half past 4, and I have a few reasons why I like to get up that early. I like to be organised, I like to avoid the traffic in the morning, and I like to feel prepared for the day ahead – I find it much better that way.

THE FIRST THING I DO IS…

I have a shower and make a coffee. I like an Italian one, an espresso – a strong one!

I PREPARE FOR THE DAY AHEAD BY…

Making sure I have a lunch to take with me, and a clean uniform. When customers are seeing you, I think it’s important to make sure your appearance is nice and you are well presented.

I CAN’T LEAVE THE HOUSE WITHOUT…

My keys, and a goodbye from my wife.

MY TYPICAL DAY –

I arrive at the depot around 5am, change into my uniform and PPE, and put my digital card in.

I start with a check of my truck, to make sure the vehicle is ready for the day. I like to pre-load so usually I’ll have pre-loaded the night before. I’ll have another quick coffee while reviewing my route, before I head out to start my trip and start making my deliveries.

In the course of the day I’ll be interacting with customers – new customers and existing customers – as well as talking with our planning team.

In our job, we’ll come across new challenges every day, but I love it – I love driving and love seeing the beautiful views around the Wisbech area.

MY MOST MEMORABLE WORK MOMENT…

I still have very strong memories of my first interview, visiting the depot for the first time and getting the opportunity to join the fuel industry.

THE WORST PART OF MY JOB…

I wouldn’t say worst, but probably the most challenging aspect, is delivering to new customers – finding the correct addresses, locating the tanks, performing delivery assessments for the first time.

THE BEST PART OF MY JOB…

Seeing new drivers come in and learn the craft. I can resonate with them – I remember when I was a beginner! There is the initial training, and then you are signed off to go out and start trips on your own. It’s exciting, and I love seeing new starters picking it up.

I RELAX AFTER WORK BY…

Spending time with the family, and going for a nice walk with the dogs or watching a movie.

MY FAVOURITE MEAL IS…

Breakfast for sure – a nice crispy baguette, ideally an Italian crispy baguette with ham, cheese, and tomatoes.

ON MY BEDSIDE TABLE IS…

A very nice, religious ornament from my mother-in-law. She gave it to me as a gift when our son was born, so I have great memories, and it represents something to me.

THE LAST THING I DO EACH DAY IS…

Kiss my wife and say goodnight.

I’M NORMALLY IN BED BY…

9pm, 9:30pm at the latest.

Image credit: Watson Fuels