GT – What’s the most exciting thing about your job?
The rapid change in technology and connectivity that allows us to put our customers more in control of their safety and security systems is really exciting.
GT – Who’s inspired you most in your career?
We had an MD once that made Lord Sugar look like a pussy cat. Not necessarily inspiring but I learnt more about myself and my abilities during that period than any other time in my career.
One of my more recent managers, who has sadly passed away, talked a lot about the importance of change management and how correctly managing change would define if a project or opportunity succeeded or not. He used to remind us that the only person that likes change is a baby with a wet nappy.
GT – If you were an item in a supermarket, what would you be?
Tiger Bread. Look a little bit crusty on the outside but with a soft interior.
GT – If you had to do it all over again, what would you do different?
I would gain a higher formal qualification, whilst experience has counted for a lot, qualifications still open up new opportunities. I was also offered a job in the Cayman’s which I turned down as the timing wasn’t right for my family, with hindsight, that would have been a great experience and adventure.
GT – What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you at work?
I don’t embarrass easily but tipping a whole cup of latte down the front of my white shirt 5 minutes before an important customer presentation was not my greatest moment.
GT – Who or what makes you laugh?
Topical humour, Have I Got News for You, QI and I never get bored of watching Fools and Horses.
GT – Do you have any hidden talents?
I can light a fire using flint and steel.
GT – Who would be your favourite party guest?
Sir Ranulph Fiennes.
GT – What is the greatest luxury in your life?
My summerhouse at the end of the garden which my family lovingly call ‘the Man Cave’.
GT – What is your favourite guilty pleasure?
Bridget Jones Diary, a bottle of red wine and a doner kebab, but don’t tell my friends.
GT – Do you have any secret ambitions?
I’d still love to walk from John O’Groats to Lands End.
Unfortunately, once I have time to do it, I don’t think my legs will be up to it.
GT – What’s your dream holiday destination?
Much to my wife’s disgust, I was fortunate enough to go alone to the Far East and Australia for business, I’ve promised that I’ll take her at some point so I think that would have to be the dream.
GT – What are your three favourite movies of all time?
The Blues Brothers, Les Miserables and The Great Escape.
GT – What is your favourite book of all time?
For Richer, For Poorer – Victoria Coren.
GT – What’s your favourite pastime?
Not really my favourite pastime, but I am Scout Leader and this takes up a huge amount of my leisure time.
I like to unwind by walking my dogs around the local countryside and ideally finding a dog friendly old pub for a “rest”.
GT – If you won the Lottery, what would you do?
I’d spend half of it on fast cars, holidays and parties and waste the rest.
GT – What would be your advice to someone thinking about coming into this industry (apart from “don’t do it”)?
Ask lots of questions and request help if you need it and regularly request feedback on how you are progressing. No one wants to see you fail. You’ll be surprised how open and supportive colleagues, peers and senior managers will be if you are proactively asking how you can improve.
ADT
ADT is the UK’s leading provider of fire, security and life safety systems for homes and businesses, offering 24/7 monitored burglar alarms, the latest smart security and lifestyle technology, CCTV systems, monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and more. Protecting homes and businesses across the UK & Ireland for over 150 years, it provides over 400,000 residential and small to medium business customers with round the clock protection, detection and peace of mind, keeping people, homes, business property and assets safe.
To take part in Quote Unquote please call: 01923 272960 or email: mail@grocerytrader.co.uk
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