Jeff Downs Q&A

 

What drives you?
The challenge and enjoyment of growing a business. Working with like-minded colleagues and clients 
 
What inspires you?
Winning. Creating. Progressing. 
 
Strongest influences
My mother. Management specialist Peter Drucker. A former manager / mentor at Hilti, Don Bone. 
 
Other interests
Family and leisure pursuits - walking, guitar playing, sea fishing, tennis, long distance running. 
 
Favourite quotation
"Nothing happens unless you make it happen" --John Gillam
 
Best decision
To grow Quantum rather than be a 2-man band. 
 
Greatest regret
Not playing rugby. 
 
Happiest business moment
First big Quantum new business win early 1993. 
 
What would you change about British business if you were given the opportunity?
Ensure that 'pure' marketing was understood and implemented. Abolish executive lavatories and the like. 
 
Fantasy job
Crewing a yacht 
 
Most admired businessperson
Peter Drucker. 
 
Least favourite personal characteristic
Put on weight too easily. 
 
Pet hate/s
Smoking in public places. Poor standards of customer service. 
 
Most over-used phrase
"Shall I open another one darling?" 
 
Other people's most over-used phrase
"My glass is empty". 
 
What makes you laugh?
"The Office" and Tony Blair 
 
Favourite city
Paris 
 
Greatest extravagance/s
Sea fishing at Brighton Marina. 
 
Current reading
'The Lord of the Rings', J.R.R.Tolkien. 'Eats Shoots and Leaves', Lynne Truss 
 
Favourite albums
'Beatles Love Songs. 'Revolver' and 'The White Album'. The Best of Louis Armstrong.