Caroline Hughes

Apr 24 2007 By Evening Gazette

Programme delivery manager, NStar Finance and Business.

What did you want to be when you were young?
A Met Officer in the Royal Navy - I was always fascinated by the sea and weather and their power and wanted to travel - but in those days women did not go on ships.

How much was your first pay packet and what did you spend it on?
I was 18 when I got my first real pay packet, it was £75 from Natwest (only part of a month). Unfortunately a tooth that the dentist had been patching up for the last 12 months (while I was still getting dentistry free) decided to crumble and I needed a crown - which cost £70 only two days after being paid.

What's your dream job, other than your current one?
Probably surfing on the North Shore at Oahu - unfortunately I am soooooooo not good enough.

What's the best piece of business advice you have received?
Don't give too much equity away (given in a Business Link sponsored presentation by someone I had never met before and has since become a good friend and mentor - and he was right).

And the worst?
"Employ me" - I got persuaded by someone to hire them as a senior manager and it cost my business dearly - you do not always get what you pay for.

What is your philosophy when it comes to business?
The best way to look after your staff is to look after your business, everything should be for the good of the business - if it doesn't add value don't do it.

What are your hobbies?
Kids, outdoors, swimming (especially in the sea), travel, Wigan Rugby League and knitting - yes, really, knitting.

What's your top business or financial tip?
Always have a plan B, the best alternative course of action.

Does anything scare you and if so what?
Heights are a bit dodgy but only since I went up the La Sagrada Familia - Gaudi's Unfinished Cathedral.

What would you choose as your epitaph?
A loving mum and steadfast friend - (preferably a loving great great grandma)