I graduated from UCLAN with a BA Hons Business Studies – in my 3rd year I spent out of the industry working for an SME that supplied the home improvement market. This provided me with an excellent overview of manufacturing, supply chain, and engineering. Following leaving University, I started my engineering and manufacturing career in the industry with Caterpillar and Perkins Engines. I learned about six sigma methodology, FMEA, APQP, practical problem solving, strategic sourcing, supply chain planning, and inventory management. I then moved to Alexander Dennis in a senior role in strategic purchasing. After Mayflower’s demise, I decided on a career change in the pursuit of running my own company. So, I trained as a Recruitment Consultant with Michael Page International and then set up Kensington’s in 2006 with two other co-founders who possess 30 years of C-suite Engineering and manufacturing experience. In my role as Co-founder & CEO, I have full P&L responsibility for the business and love leading teams to do great things.
What do you do when you're not working?
Hobbies are vast and varied. I have a passion for the mountains and the outdoors. Winter sees me floating (I wish!) horizontally across the slopes and in the summer, fell walking with my black Labrador Flossie. Football, Golf, and Tabata fills in the gaps.
Are there any people or books that have inspired you?
Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Dave Brailsford, Ranulph Fiennes, and The Chimp Paradox.
What's your favourite thing about your job and working at Kensingtons?
I enjoy meeting the world's best people that are leading future technology for tomorrow – sounds cheesy but absolutely true.
What are your 3 core values?
Trust, Determination & Empathy
What advice would you give to a client hiring in AM?
When deciding on your job description and the person you need to fill the role, spend more time on attitudes and less on skills. But I guess this is not unique to AM.
What advice would you give to a candidate looking for opportunities in AM?
Focus on your features, attributes, and the benefits/value you can provide to a future employer. Ask yourself, is the company culture lived or laminated?
