**What was your first job?**
I was sabbatical president of my students’ union! I led a rent strike… which we won (at least I thought we did!). Then, I joined a bank. Go figure, eh?
**What was the best advice you were ever given?**
It’s not what you do you regret in life, it’s what you don’t do (something my mother always said).
**Which was the last book you read?**
_How to Invest_ by David Rubenstein. A series of interviews with some of the world’s best investors. You never stop learning!
**What would be the first item on your bucket list?**
Don’t believe in having one! If I want to do something, I try and do it.
**Who inspires you?**
My HomeServe co-founder Richard Harpin. He has a very creative approach to business and is utterly driven and focused. As a result, he has built a fantastic business employing thousands.
**How would you spend your ideal weekend?**
Off powder skiing in the morning, followed by a big lunch with friends.
**How long can you go without your mobile phone?**
I can’t. And I don’t want to!
**What advice would you give the young you?**
Have confidence to try things, then focus on what works. The only failure is not trying.
**What would be your luxury item on Desert Island Discs?**
A bottle of red wine.
**Who would you most like to meet and why?**
Richard Branson. He has built a fantastic brand and had great fun doing it.
