Management by common sense
Running a company standing on your head
JLA: What's your priority in 2011?
JT: To batten down the hatches! The vat increase impacts on us significantly, so we'll look at ways of securing additional revenue. Regular reviews of promotions and offers tend to provide a cash boost and give customers the opportunity to make savings.
JLA: How do you encourage innovation?
JT: We operate a 'tell James' scheme and reward colleagues for sending in ideas even if we've thought or heard of them before. Most of our best ideas emerge this way - we just help to orchestrate them.
JLA: How does a mature business stay entrepreneurial?
JT: Everyone must remain vigilant and open to new ideas. Great money making tips and business opportunities usually come from the most unlikely of people - and when least expected.
JLA: Are you as ambitious now as when you first entered business?
JT: Definitely. 2011 will present many business, economic and social challenges - but I'm in training for my next triathlon and very much up for the contest!
January 2011
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