What do you currently do?
I’m the Managing Director of Turn Key, a group of creative experts based in Leeds. My job encompasses a range of roles and responsibilities but mainly I’m here to ensure the business never stands still and is always moving in the right direction.
Recently we’ve moved to a fantastic new headquarters in the city centre and doubled the number of staff we employee; co-ordinating the expansion has taken a lot of time and planning, but it’s a huge step for the company and a very exciting time!
What is your inspiration in business?
I’ve always thought that starting and progressing a business is like going on a journey. I started Turn Key from my bedroom at the age of 22, 12 years down the line we’re a group of 30 very talented staff spanning four departments. I’ve always been determined to never stagnate, we started off as a handful of designers and as the marketing, communications and digital sectors developed, so did our offering.
Who do you admire?
As cheesy as it sounds, I admire the people I work with. I am very lucky to have recruited a team of talented professionals who are as passionate about Turn Key and what we do as I am.
Looking back, are there things you would have done differently?
My only regret is that I didn’t find the most talented and experienced people that we have in our team today, right at the beginning! Skilled, experienced professionals can really fast track a business in the creative industry – as they always say, if you buy cheap, you pay twice!
What defines your way of doing business?
My approach to business is to always be fair, this applies to both staff and clients. We work in the industry of ideas, the creative world can be opinionated and subjective, but it’s important to always be open to criticism and other people’s point of view.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
Use your initiative and follow it as much as you can. Also, don’t borrow money, make your own – in the service industry borrowing is not essential.
