What first inspired you to become involved in business?
In the early part of my career I spent a lot of time with young start-up companies and met a lot of people running businesses where I found there was a real passion and energy driving those people to succeed. That was something I could really empathise with and I realised early on the role I could play in supporting those businesses and helping them to reach their goals. It is hugely satisfying to see a client that started their business in the front room of their flat in the centre of Bristol, now turning over millions and operating out of offices here and in London.
Looking back is there anything you would have done differently in the course of your career?
There is not very much I would change, as I feel I made the right decisions at the right time. If there was one thing, it might be to go for a formal and recognised business qualification at some point. I left school without going to university, because I wanted to go straight into a job, but there is part of me that would have enjoyed doing some kind of business qualification.
What part of your job do you enjoy the most?
It could be the football fan in me, but I really enjoy setting objectives for the team and seeing them succeed. I think it's really important that everybody plays their part and has the credit for their role. Having a role in leading the team is very rewarding.
What is the key challenge facing business in the UK today?
Access to funding is a big issue for many small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) who feel they are not getting the backing they need from the banks, but actually the issue is more about access to information. There are many forms of funding available to businesses of all sizes. At Bibby Financial Services we are pushing for more information to be made available to business owners, including as start-ups and fledgling companies, so that they are much more aware of all the options which are available.
What can Government do to help businesses thrive?
Cutting the amount of red tape that is tying businesses up in knots should be one of the top priorities of this Government if they are serious about helping companies to thrive and grow and ultimately move out of recession. Running an independent business, as I do, I have complete sympathy with the clients who tell us they are hamstrung by the costs of running their company.
What one piece of advice would you give anyone considering setting up their own company?
It is the old mantra of cash flow is king, but it is still true, and in fact probably more important in the climate we are in than ever before. We see far too many businesses owners that launch into an enterprise without really considering their levels of income and expenditure, or understanding how they will pay their staff. In addition to getting that firm financial foundation, I would say don't give up as there is a lot of support out there and Bristol is an exciting place to do business.
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