Emma - fOUNDER
Emma began her career with John Lewis & Partners, before three years at Waitrose & Partners. After completing a BA (Hons) in Modern Languages, she moved into international education, supporting American universities in developing their study abroad programmes – a role that took her across the United States.
In 2020, Emma was made redundant during the pandemic, and what began as a small idea soon grew into a thriving business. Stort Valley Gifting was born from her passion for outstanding customer service and championing local producers – values that remain at the heart of the business today.
In her spare time, Emma enjoys baking – no party is complete without her famous shortbread or a tantalising lemon drizzle cake. She also enjoys discovering new and interesting food and drink, both here in the UK and on her travels abroad.
Rob - dIrector
After more than 15 years working within public, private, and government sectors, Rob launched Robson Analytics in 2018. He began contracting within local government and education, as well as the construction and logistics industries.
Rob plays a key role behind the scenes at Stort Valley Gifting – keeping systems running smoothly and helping ensure everything operates like clockwork.
Outside of work, Rob is an active member of Chelmsford Round Table and a big rugby fan – although these days he’s more likely to be watching than playing! He’s also a keen quizzer, regularly competing in the National Quizzing Championships, as well as sharing Emma’s love of discovering new food and drink, both locally and further afield.
Fig
Fig has been with Stort Valley Gifting since the very start and takes her role as Chief Happiness Officer (and unofficial Head of Security) very seriously. She can typically be found surveying the warehouse from her chaise longue or keeping watch from the showroom – occasionally offering her opinion with an enthusiastic bark, albeit sometimes at the wrong people.
Well known to customers for her loving nature, Fig is a firm favourite and is always happy to offer a warm welcome. When she’s not overseeing operations, she enjoys making regular patrols of the area, ensuring the neighbours aren’t up to anything suspicious – all in a day's work for our most loyal team member.
the events team
We’re very fortunate to have a brilliant team who support us behind the scenes from assisting in preparing hampers and gifts to helping out at events. They’re all passionate about what we do and love sharing their favourite products with you. We couldn’t do it without them, and their energy, care, and attention to detail help bring the Stort Valley Gifting experience to life.