In terms of teamwork and selecting the right team, how does that translate into what you do here at Berco?

That’s a good point, and now talking in this discussion, it comes through as quite an obvious one. There is no doubt about it if I look at the management team here then I really believe that we have the best people in each position. If we didn’t, the lesson would have to be that we have either got to put that person into the right job, or make a change.

Don’t take second best when choosing your team. If you have someone who hits a weak point, as they might for example on an expedition, if they have the right frame of mind then they will get through that, and the team will get through that. The team will want to support that person. So think carefully before you put someone in a particular position. Make sure they are a good fit, not only with technical ability, but

with the right attitude. And then when they are in that position, support them 100% until you hit that path, unless the deviation is so great that it’s like a broken leg where they can’t carry on.

Can you name a person who has had a big impact on you as a leader?

There are quite a few people that I have learnt from, as I have tried to take different elements from a lot of people. We have Bernie who is the founder of this business who has great strength in keeping composure and trying to be pleasant as well as driving a very strong image. I think that has been a big influence on me too. I have worked for people over the years that have taught me various things. Reading books is important too, for example Jack Welch has some great books. I wouldn’t say there is one particular mentor that stands out but there are many that I have tried to learn from.