BusinessCar’s Paul Barker puts 13 testing questions to another victim
1. What was your first job?
A sales executive for a Volvo dealer in Kent – I was young and a little naive, but not for long. It was a great learning experience and a lot of fun.
2. What was your first company car?
A sporty Volvo 440 (yes, they did exist).
3. What did you listen to on your last car journey?
My eldest son pointing out every lorry, tractor, bus and Mini that we went past – I fear a career in the auto industry beckons.
4. What one thing do you wish you could do better?
Driving on a track. I’m no Lewis Hamilton and I am embarrassed every time there is an opportunity to test new products on a circuit.
5. What’s your biggest achievement?
Managing to keep up-to-date with the huge number of new vehicles that are available.
6. Who is your role model?
Richard Branson for his business acumen (and luck), and my mother for her common sense.
7. What’s the stupidest thing you’ve done?
Using my wife’s passport to get into Germany. She was unhappy that my mistake was only spotted as I was trying to come home.
8. What was the most hotly debated topic at your last meeting?
The ongoing strength of the used car market, and the long-term impact of the scrappage scheme.
9. What’s in your garage?
A 1971 Sunbeam Stiletto covered in a thick layer of dust.
10. What’s the worst thing about your job?
The constant travelling, which occasionally leaves very little time to actually do the job!
11. What one law would you make or change?
Driving tests should be compulsory every 10 years. And there should be exams to ensure politeness and courtesy – and not just on the road.
12. What keeps you awake at night?
Trying to remember where in the world I am.
13. Who is your ideal celebrity date?
A chance to go out on a ‘date’ with my wife would be much more appealing than meeting any celebrity.
