Ian Basford

Apr 17 2007 By Evening Gazette

Q&A With Ian Basford, Wynyard-based business development director of Balfour Beatty Management

What did you want to be when you were young?
When I was growing up, I wanted to be an RAF pilot - far removed from being a quantity surveyor.

How much was your first pay packet and what did you spend it on?
My first pay packet was for £14! At the time I would have been spending my money on petrol, my girlfriend and a drink or two.

What is your dream job, other than your current one?
My dream job would be renting out pedallos on the Costa del Sol - sun and sea and I imagine very little pressure.

What is the best piece of business advice you have received?
A long time ago I was told "love your clients and your staff - if you don't somebody else will". It's certainly a message I've never forgotten, and I'm not going to risk finding out how true it is.

And the worst?
By far the worst advice I received was "rule your staff by fear, it works a treat". I decided not to test the theory out.

What is your philosophy when it comes to business?
My philosophy is to listen to both my clients and my staff, and always strive to meet the expectations of both.

What are your hobbies?
I enjoy all sports and gardening. I am also very much into socialising.

What is your top business or financial tip?
I would advise that you always concentrate on your core capabilities and ensure that you maximise them first before branching out into other areas.

Does anything scare you and if so what?
No, I don't think anything really scares me. I'm pretty well balanced and tend to take everything in my stride.

What would you choose as your epitaph?
I'll be back!