Neil Stephenson
Sales and marketing director, Onyx Group, Middlesbrough.
What did you want to be when you were young?
Cricketer - I grew up playing cricket at the local cricket team, where my dad was one of the top players. I did captain the first team eventually and have played at Durham CCC but had to give up as family and business commitments took over my time.
How much was your first pay packet and what did you spend it on?
First pay cheque was about £700 and I put the deposit down for a car and bought my mam some flowers to thank her for putting up with me so far.
What's your dream job, other than your current one?
Manager of Newcastle United or Prime Minister - one's the most important person in the UK, the other one is really to fulfil my political ambitions.
What's the best piece of business advice you have received?
Collect all of your debts no matter what it takes - it is your cash and you need it to pay your suppliers!
And the worst?
Most independent external advice given is relatively short term in its nature - so you need to make sure you have the long term view of how you are building your business or you will make serious longer term mistakes.
What is your philosophy when it comes to business?
Hire good, smart people and incentivise them highly to succeed and have as much fun as you can in the process.
What are your hobbies ?
I read one book per week, enjoy socialising and spend as much time as possible walking in the Lake District with my wife and young family. I have one idea a day so spend lots of my spare time considering new opportunities and acting on the best ones.
What's your top business or financial tip?
Don't be too prudent or cautious, you can always afford something if you really try. I have many times wished I had pursued something that I discounted because I felt it was beyond my means at that time only to realise a short time later I could have afforded it after all. Good ideas always attract cash!
Does anything scare you and if so what?
Politicians are all very scary people.
What would you choose as your epitaph?
Kind to those he knew, charitable to those in need and always happy!
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