What do you currently do?
I’m managing director of the Agenci – operating out of Leeds and London, we’re specialists in information security and business continuity and help to protect wide-ranging companies from cyber-attacks and internal threats.
What is your inspiration in the business?
I’m inspired by my team. They are people who understand Information Security in all its forms and know how to apply it to businesses large and small. Passion fuels inspiration and all the people I deal with are passionate about helping people.
Who do you admire?
I admire people who see plateaus as a springboard to reach the next level. The only boundaries we are confined by are those we set ourselves, so I admire people who are continually looking to improve themselves or achieve something new. In particular I am inspired by people such as Bruce Lee, the martial arts genius who redefined an ancient art and introduced the world to a new way of thinking.
In business terms it would be Sir John Harvey Jones the original ‘Trouble shooter’ and business leader for ICI. My favorite quote of his is: “Leadership is the priceless gift that you earn from the people who work for you. I have to earn the right to that gift and have to continuously re-earn that right.” That’s something all business leaders should remember.
Looking back are there things you would have done differently?
Yes. I would have paid more attention when I was younger to the people who said you can achieve anything you set your mind to. It took me a long time to learn that lesson.
What defines your way of doing business?
People are at the centre of all that we do, so honesty, integrity and openness define our approach to each person we come into contact with. We treat people the way we expect to be treated and we are always looking to create lasting relationships so we’re always open and honest about what we can provide and how we can help. The integrity comes into play when we tell people things they may not want to hear, but need to hear!
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
Take calculated risks and be true to what you believe in.
