Friday, August 29th 2008
‘On the Spot’ with Ian Wood, our MD (from the Yorkshire Post)
What was your first job?
I swept the floor at George Bray in Woodhouse, which manufactured gas burners. My dad was the production manager and being the son of the boss brought me merciless teasing from the girls on the shop floor!
If not in your present job, what would you like to do?
Professional rally or race driver.
What was your worst mistake?
Signing a 25-year office lease with a personal guarantee which was like having the sword of Damocles hanging over me for a quarter of a century.
What would your ideal day be away from the office?
With a backdrop of bright blue skies, my wife Margaret and I would ski across a crisp powder-snow covered mountains and demolish a delicious seafood lunch. After an afternoon traversing the slopes we would retire to our chalet for dinner with friends.
Name the one person you would most like to have dinner with?
My mum, to tell her how much I loved her and thank her for all the support she gave me when building my business, something I rarely did when she was alive.
What was your best subject at school?
Art which captivated me at an early age although my mother didn’t appreciate the aeroplane drawings that adorned my newly emulsioned bedroom walls!
What are your hobbies?
The outdoors is an exhilarating place for me so I spend most of my free time cycling, skiing or walking.
What would you do if you won the National Lottery?
Devote much time to establishing and running a charitable foundation. My wife Margaret, also a great believer in “putting something back,” supports homeless people to turn their lives around.
What is your top time-saving tip?
Employ people who are cleverer than you and delegate as much as possible to them.
What is your favorite time of day and why?
Early – around 4.30am on a bright spring morning when the light and tranquility are incredibly energising.
What is your favourite garment?
My ski boots – whenever I am wearing them life is exhilarating.
What is the best thing about being in Yorkshire?
Being in God’s own county.
What would you like your epitaph to be?
How Much! ….A Yorkshireman even after the end.
Posted by icm on Friday 29th of August 2008 at 12:12pm
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