Who was your hero when you were growing up?
My dad, amongst other things he was the regional director of Institute of Management. He has always challenged me and supported me in equal measure. He has been a great role model, showing me the value of hard work and been a great mentor and sounding board for me throughout my career. I was fortunate that my parents always encouraged me to try new things and not be afraid to fail!
Dad arranged varied work experience for me, including a work placement with a Midlands manufacturing business. The business had reached an impasse in introducing a new computer system despite having their best people on the job, because the computer outputs weren’t matching the paper-based system. My challenge for the week was to solve this problem for the MD! I spent the first day with my head in my hands not knowing where to start and how I could possibly succeed where others had failed. That night my dad enquiring about my day and hearing of my reaction, taught me one massive lesson. There is no such thing as can’t! He encouraged me to think laterally and logically, break down the problem and go back the next day and have a proper go with a clear mind and fresh perspective! On day two I saw the pattern and on day three I presented the results to the MD.
The lessons – step back, approach the problem calmly and remain positive. Test and review. All problems are solvable – it’s all about mindset.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
Like many people I did not really have a sense of what I wanted to do in my future career. I had always been interested in business and sales (from the age of 10!). When I left the sixth form, I stumbled into an interesting degree, Industrial Information Technology, which was in its first year being offered. I could not have selected a better degree to set me up for the workplace and industry that I work in today. This coupled with the early insights into the telecoms market, by attending a BT event at the age of 14 which piqued my interest in the industry set me in good stead for the future. Dad had worked at BT as an apprentice from the age of 16 right through to senior management at the age of 50, so I guess it was always in my blood!
The Rolling Stones or the Beatles?
Tough choice! If pushed I would have to say the Beatles, due to their rapid global success and impact they had at the time, the popularity and awareness of their music, slightly edging the Rolling Stones for breaking the mould and their longevity as a band. Either way both are fantastic examples of the impact and success of the British music industry.
If you had to work in a different industry, which would you choose?
I love working in IT and technology as it’s so faced moving, with lots of new ideas to explore and value to create for the customers we work with. But if I had to be in a different industry then I would be an architect as I am passionate about trying new things, solving problems, creativity and design.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
No such word as can’t, always give it a go, do your best and be open to continue to learn and develop.
What was your big career break?
When I joined Britannic in 1997 and Richard Dendle, founder of Britannic, taught me the importance of adding value and customer service and gave me opportunities throughout my years in the business and the room to grow, constantly expanding my skills and knowledge.
Where would you live if money was no object?
I am fortunate to live in the heart of the South Downs National Park, close to the coast, with great countryside on our doorstep, access to amazing walks and scenery, good friends close by and a wonderful local pub. I think sometimes we underestimate the UK, with different seasons, wildlife, diversity of culture, our heritage and so many places to explore! Why would I want to live anywhere else?!
If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would you choose?
I’m going to choose three people:
Sir David Attenborough to wonder at his insights into the natural world.
Winston Churchill to understand how he overcame great adversity as our war time leader.
Leonardo Da Vinci, what an amazing all-rounder. He was a scientist, artist, architect, inventor, and engineer – you would not be short of topics for conversation!
What’s the greatest technological advancement in your lifetime?
Until recently I would have said the iPhone, but I think advances and opportunity with Generative AI have the potential for a true paradigm shift!
