Andy Atkins

May 15 2007 By Evening Gazette

What did you want to be when you were young?
An RAF pilot.

How much was your first pay packet and what did you spend it on?
£53 and I spent it on beer and rent.

What's your dream job, other than your current one?
Probably something creative - maybe art photography/writing for food or design journals.

What's the best piece of business advice you have received?
"It's up to you to make things happen" - former boss at Golden Wonder (17 years ago).

And the worst?
"Stick this out and we'll make a lot of money" - a former MD of mine. I left and they didn't make a lot of money.

What is your philosophy when it comes to business?
Have integrity; try to anticipate; don't plan too rigidly.

What are your hobbies?
Photography, hill walking, guitar and design.

What's your top business or financial tip?
Everything will cost more than you originally budgeted!

Does anything scare you and if so what?
Not much - I've given up several lucrative careers already in search of fulfilment. Actually, my girls are about to become teenagers - that's genuinely worrying!

What would you choose as your epitaph?
Here lies a thoroughly decent man.