On the Spot

Washing pots and pans at The Kings Arms Hotel, Keswick. I was 13.

If you weren’t in your present position, what would you be doing?

I almost ended up as a warehouse manager when I was 21. I pushed a trolley round at high speed so they earmarked me for management training.

What’s the worst mistake you’ve ever made?

Going to architecture school in London at the age of 18. I didn’t know what hit me.

What’s your ideal day away from the office?

Running along a mountain ridge in The Lake District.

Name one person you’d like to have dinner with and why?

I think it would be quite a fun evening with Bradley Wiggins.

What was your best subject at school?

Ancient history.

What are your hobbies?

Road, trail and fell-running.

What would you do if you won the lottery?

I would make sure my family had what they needed, give a big lump to Leeds Community Foundation and do a lot of travelling.

What’s your top time saving tip?

Delegate.

What’s your favourite time of day?

Evening, particularly in the summer running in Roundhay Park.

What’s your favourite item of clothing?

My trail running shoes – they’ve taken me to some beautiful places.

What’s the best thing about being in Yorkshire?

I think Leeds is a really great city, but I also love how easy it is to get out into some fantastic countryside.

What would your epitaph be?

He did alright, all things considered.