How did you get into the automotive business?
I took the advice of a life-long friend who was at Austin Rover at the time. I joined Lucas Girling as a product specialist.

What does your job entail?
Managing business growth and helping our team members deal with their challenges and issues in the work place. Additionally, I liaise regularly with our Group factories in Idaho and Tasmania – any hour, night or day, due to the time difference!

How will your job change over the next few years?
The main task is to create robust plans for that growth and to ensure we continue to satisfy customer requirements.

Where else have you worked?
Prior to joining Lucas in the Eighties I served in the Royal Navy as a pilot. I then went on to spend time as a qualified rowing instructor. Subsequent to Lucas I spent around 10 years at Hella in Banbury.

What advice would you give to young people planning to join the industry?
Get to know the customer base. Understand their needs and try to be creative in your ideas. Never take no for an answer and be determined to succeed. All obvious stuff, really.

What’s the worst career move you’ve ever made?
I’ve honestly never made a bad one, thank goodness.

And the best?
Joining Vision Alert.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
Enjoying life with my wife Kerry and two sons Callum and Matthew.

Favourite book
The Art of War by Sun Tsu.

Favourite holiday
Skiing in St Anton, Austria.

Favourite film:
The Cruel Sea with Jack Hawkins.

Favourite music:
Free and Keane.

First car
A MkII 1100cc Escort

Dream car
Definitely an Audi RS6.

Luxury item
A Pitts S2 aeroplane.