Name: Steve Godrich Company: XPart Job: Manager All-Makes Age: 47

How did you get in to the automotive business?

I joined the business straight from school and served a four-year motor vehicle apprentice-ship in a Chrysler Garage. I left the “spanner” after five years for the parts business and have been in it ever since.

What does your job entail?

I am responsible for the All-Makes proposition in the XPart business.

How will your job change over the next few years?

The parts business is always changing with more and more parts covering a more diverse car parc. We will need to adapt our proposition to meet those changing demands.

Previous jobs?

Motor mechanic, service reception engineer, retail parts manager, motor factor manager, product manager, marketing manager, business manager and performance improvement manager, all in the motor industry.

What advice would you give to young people planning to join the industry?

Be prepared to work within an ever-changing environment.

What’s the worst career move you’ve ever made?

I have enjoyed my career so far and I have gained valuable experience along the way.

And the best?

I really got a buzz from working with motor factor branches and helping our customers improve their business.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

Hopefully on a sun-kissed beach drinking champagne. I keep checking my numbers.

Favourite book

Animal Farm by George Orwell.

Favourite holiday

Florida Favourite film True Lies (Jamie Lee Curtis does it for me). Luxury item My iPod.