On The Spot With Phil Jones

What was your first job?

Assistant valet at The Berkeley Hotel, Knightsbridge, London

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

I’d like to think that I’d be doing something philanthropic.

What was your worst mistake?

Thinking that I can get the best out of everyone on the payroll. In the past, several people have proved me wrong and it’s exhausting trying to motivate such people. The team that I have now are fantastic.

What’s your ideal day away from the office?

In the Alps.

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

I’d have to say Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington. I’d be really interested to hear his account of The Battle of Waterloo.

What was your best subject at school?

Maths, science and PE.

What are your hobbies?

Weight training, cycling and watching my sons play football and rugby.

What would you do if you won the Lotto?

If I won more than £3m, I would retire (I think). I would give the business to the team, with ownership in proportion to their length of service. If I won the Euro Millions I would set up a sports village in Goole, providing facilities for children in the town.

What’s your favourite item of clothing?

A brown, leather Oliver Sweeney jacket. It cost me ‘an arm and a leg’, but I really like it.

What’s your favourite time of day?

Bedtime.

What’s the best thing about Yorkshire?

We have the best walks and rides; the best food; the best beer; the best people; and the best football team in Leeds United.

What would you like your epitaph to be?

A life well lived.