1\. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB?
At university I sold Shagrags (first two letters of my surname), fun boardshorts which I had made. It made me realize that quality products can be sold at premium prices. Before University I had a job working in the medical department of Foyle’s bookshop in Charing Cross Road.
2\. WHAT WAS THE BEST ADVICE YOU WERE EVER GIVEN?
Our family motto is Facta non Verba (deeds not words). I try to live by that as it is part of my family crest. At GPFO you are only as good as your last event.
3\. WHICH WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ?
Decline and Fall by Evelyn Waugh. However, I read a lot about naval history as it runs strongly in my family, especially information on Nelson and Augustus Agar, one of my relatives who won a Naval VC at Kronstadt.
4\. WHAT WOULD BE THE FIRST ITEM ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?
A Holiday!
5\. WHO INSPIRES YOU?
Winston Churchill, for his leadership in times of trouble and his enjoyment of a good cigar or two.
6\. WHAT DOES YOUR IDEAL WEEKEND INVOLVE?
Barbecuing with family and friends and my dogs. But if being total selfish I do enjoy casting a fly over some trout on a local river. More often than not you will find me out with a chainsaw and chopping wood.
7\. HOW LONG CAN YOU GO WITHOUT YOUR MOBILE?
I would love to switch it off, but unfortunately as a company and with the families we work with it is 24/7 due to time zones.
8\. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THE YOUNG YOU?
Try, try and try again. You will be knocked down but never give up.
9\. WHAT WOULD BE YOUR LUXURY ITEM ON DESERT ISLAND DISCS?
A box of Cuban cigars and my Morris Minor!
10\. WHO WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO MEET, AND WHY?
Bill Gates and Warren Buffett – two inspirational figures of today. However, the Queen inspires me for her loyalty and duty and symbolises the ultimate standard to all her subjects.
