What’s the most exciting thing about your job?
I do relish a challenge; and that’s certainly something you get in this job. It’s important to push yourself; to try to do things better; to strive for improvements. Diversity, opportunity and working with a great team are also an extremely rewarding part of the job.
Who has inspired you most in your career?
Founder and former MD of BrandSAFE, Keith Beck. We have worked together for over 20 years. His tough but fair minded, pragmatic, no-nonsense approach together with innate resisilence, humanity and loyalty, has proved inspirational to me as I’ve navigated my way through a complex, competitive and uncompromising market.
If you were an item in a warehouse, what would you be?
That’s easy: a forklift. They are strong, resislient, uplifting and agile – qualities that I admire and hope that people see in me.
If you had your time again, what would you do different?
Without being trite, there’s nothing else I would do that’s different. Perhaps, I would try to be a little calmer, more considered, but I guess that’s all part of being young when you have ambition, enthusiasm and energy to burn.
What’s your favourite pastime?
Spending time with my family – I enjoy their company hugely – and pottering in the house and garden. I also enjoy kicking back and relaxing by watching a good film.
Do you play a sport, follow a sport or support a team?
When I get the chance, it’s good to pop along with friends to Franklin Gardens to watch Northampton RFC play. I love the team ethos and camaraderie that comes with rugby plus the social side is always great fun, too.
What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s happened in your career?
I once misdialled into someone else’s tele-conference call. Rather embrassasing and I was quick to disengage myself from the call. Lesson learnt: be careful and proceed with caution in future. Do you have any hidden talents?
Maybe you should ask my colleagues about this; they’re perhaps better placed than me to answer. However, I would like to say I’m calm in pressure situations, a good listener (if that’s a talent), and can bake a pretty good cake when required.
Who would be your favourite party guest?
Frank Sinatra. That whole Rat Pack, late 50s/early 60s American regal charm, suave sophistication and easy effervescence has long captivated me.
What is the greatest luxury in your life?
A bottle of Louis Vuitton perfume, worn on special occasions and when I’m out with friends.
If you won the Lottery, what would you do?
I would definitely want to give something back, so I would probably invest in BrandSAFE and help and mentor other local small businesses and entrepreneurs. Those who are keen and looking to do something different, to realise their dreams.
Who or what makes you laugh?
Comedian and TV personality Micky Flanagan. Irreverent, effortlessly funny and a seemingly decent person, he never ceases to be funny.
What’s your dream holiday?
A retreat on the island of Bali would do nicely. The tranquility has always appealed; and I would love to be able to get away from the daily hustle and bustle of life to recharge the batteries on its remote golden shores.
What’s your favourite music album?
It would have to be the ‘Best of the Four Tops’. I love that unmistakeable Motown sound: it’s fantastic, upbeat, feel good music that never fails to fill you with joy.
What’s your favourite movie or Netflix series?
For its great characters, gripping plot lines and terrific acting, it would have to be Peaky Blinders.
What would be your advice to someone thinking about coming into the industry?
Make sure that you listen to as many people as possible and have an open mind. Be strong and determined to ensure your voice is heard above the clamour, and make sure you argue your point as effectively, politely and fairly as possible. If you have ideas, have the courage of your convictions and never be afraid to push yourself, hone your skills and grow as an individual. After all, our industry’s built on those who have come with good ideas and had the requisite temerity and drive to see their visions become reality.
BrandSAFE
Established in 2009, BrandSAFE specialises in bespoke designed impact protection systems and solutions for distribution centres, warehouses, manufacturing and production facilities, and commercial and retail property across the UK and internationally. Products comply with appropriate safety standards as well meeting environmental considerations around sustainability, zero waste and consumption of fuels. More at www.brandsafeprotection.com
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