Malcolm Potter

Feb 13 2007 By Evening Gazette

Manager of Tees Valley Engineering Partnership.

What did you want to be when you were young?
An astronaut or an Olympic athlete. Unfortunately a tendency for travel sickness and an aversion to training held me back.

How much was your first pay packet and what did you spend it on?
My first proper wage was £14 and was probably spent on beer and LPs.

What's your dream job, other than your current one?
Sports commentator with a front row seat at all the major events. Or a body painter!

What's the best piece of business advice you have received?
Always look for advice even if you don't take it.

And the worst?
Get out of engineering.

What is your philosophy when it comes to business?
Don't promise what you can't deliver.

What are your hobbies?
Squash, golf, walking.

What's your top business or financial tip?
For individuals - buy only what you can afford. For businesses - a company director should have no interest in the short term.

Does anything scare you and if so what?
Watching the English cricket team (or rugby, I suppose, or football - no, that just bores me).

What would you choose as your epitaph?
Follow that!