Jeremy Walford

Aug 21 2007 by Helen Logan, Evening Gazette

Managing director, Middleton Hall Retirement Village, Middleton St George.

What did you want to be when you were young?

An England cricketer (or failing that, rather bizarrely, an engineer). Obviously, I failed to achieve either.

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

My first pay packet was £40, which I considered remarkable riches for a rather useless farm worker in 1978. I probably spent it on some (vinyl) albums which thankfully are no longer are around to embarrass me.

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

A ski guide or, sometimes, when I am having a stressful day, barman at Middleton Hall rather appeals.

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

Always, always aim to be different from your competitors.

And the worst?

From a London friend ten years ago (on learning that I was moving to the north to run a retirement home) "You must be mad." He was very wrong.

What is your philosophy when it comes to business?

Work at something that you believe passionately in and enjoy doing. Thankfully, I do.

What are your hobbies?

Skiing, mountains - walking up them, skiing down them, in fact anything that doesn't involve looking over the edge of them! - cricket, tennis, appallingly bad golf and a bit of orienteering.

What's your top business or financial tip?

Be honest - with your customers, your employees, your suppliers and above all yourself.

Does anything scare you and if so what?

Heights (see above - not too far above that is)

What would you choose as your epitaph?

He lived.

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