Paul Brown, managing director of Cars on Demand, explains what the inspiration was behind the business, and also what, if he could, he’d do differently.
What do you do?
At Cars on Demand we supply cars and light commercial vehicles to businesses and individuals nationwide, on short term, flexible contracts.
Our customers range from established businesses who require short term contracts, to start-ups with limited cash flow, to employees in need of a flexible transport solution.
We offer a range of rolling monthly leases including 6 – 24-month fixed contracts. We pride ourselves on offering low deposits, low monthly payments and flexible terms which make our contract hire and car leasing arrangements appealing to a wide range of customers across the UK.
What was the inspiration behind your business?
15 years ago we saw a gap in the market between inflexible traditional vehicle contract hire (typically 2 – 4 years) and expensive daily rental of vehicles. From that moment on we decided to develop a solution that was both cost-effective and desirable to individuals and business with different needs. We listened to our clients and that fuelled our growth and development.
What do you admire?
Honesty, integrity, fairness and brevity! I apply these values to the way that we work and how I run the business. It’s admirable to witness these traits in other business leaders too, even competitors.
Looking back, what would you do differently?
Nothing, I don’t believe in dwelling on the past. By all means review mistakes and learn from them, but you cannot change the past so the only solution is to look forwards. I believe, the only way you can grow as an individual and a business leader, is by ensuring you are ahead of the game 100% of the time, and that means there is no room for being stuck in the past.
What advice would you give someone starting out?
Ensuring you have a clear vision including objectives that you can review progress regularly against will allow you to succeed. It’s important to always measure success honestly as this is what provides the roots for further growth.
I feel a major driver in succeeding, is to surround yourself with good people who will be a part of your journey.
Always remember it’s okay to be determined and have fun – but don’t be obstinate.
Lastly, enjoy the ride! Take the time to celebrate your successes when they happen.
