Joanne Cullum

Aug 14 2007 by Sarah Judd, Evening Gazette

Marketing manager of Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre, Billingham. Joanne was the winner of this year’s MBA scholarship competition organised by the Evening Gazette and Teesside University Business School.

What did you want to be when you were young?

Work in the fashion industry as a fashion buyer... How things change!

How much was your first pay packet and what did you spend it on?

While at college I worked in a local supermarket and I think my first pay packet was about £30 which went on clothes and going out with friends.

What's your dream job, other than your current one?

Working part time making my own range of jewellery and selling it for ridiculous amounts of money from a local boutique ... you did ask for DREAM job didn't you!

What's the best piece of business advice you have received?

Always listen to those around you when planning campaigns - your customer audiences and just as importantly your colleagues dealing with your customers on a day to day basis.

And the worst?

Always go with the cheapest deal.

What is your philosophy when it comes to business?

Look after your staff and don't be afraid to try something new (whilst having fun along the way...)

What are your hobbies?

Things 'arty' and 'active' really as well enjoying good food, wine and music with friends ... and more recently working on an allotment and growing my own veggies ... think I'm getting old!

What's your top business or financial tip?

Keep a close eye on what's happening around you and only spend what you can really afford.

Does anything scare you and if so what?

Spiders.

What would you choose as your epitaph?

A great friend who lived life to the full.

For an archive of Q&A columns log onto www.gazettelive.co.uk/businessqanda