What was your first job and what did your responsibilities include?

I began my working life sat behind the bank desk for the Oxford & Swindon Co-op How much was in your first pay packet and what did you spend it on?

I remember it was £4.7s. 6d. Unfortunately I did not see any of it as I had to give it to my mother as a loan repayment. I cannot remember the APR, but you could say I was taught the value of money from a very young age.

Describe how your career developed to the present day A large part of my career was spent working as a salesman for British Gas. Whilst there I became aware of the importance of energy and the effect it has on people lives. As Britain’s gas resources decreased it became obvious to me that at some point in the future we would need an alternative solution. I did some research into how other countries around the world dealt with their heating demands and I discovered heat pumps. Having become convinced that ground source heating was the long-term solution to the UK’s inevitable heating problem, I started up Ice Energy and I have not looked back since.

What are the key responsibilities in your position?

The most important has to be the responsibility I hold for the sales performance of the company. It is vital that I keep in close contact with government and senior civil servants given the obvious political importance of the green energy sector. I am also, like any managing director, constantly exploring new opportunities and ways to develop the business.

Describe a typical day At around 7am I begin calling members of my management team to discuss the day ahead and to let them know what is expected of them and the other personnel. I am then usually in the office from 9am onwards for them to come to me for any advice that might be required. I spend the day in and out of meetings with suppliers or to do with matters relating to the development of business opportunities. In the evening I head to more appointments with strategic partners or senior management before finishing the day at around 10pm.

Who/what have been the biggest influences on your career?

The biggest influence for me has always been to prove an idea. It is fantastic to see my vision unfolding as renewable technologies become more and more mainstream.

What has been your best decision?

Starting Ice Energy. The work we are doing to increase awareness of the benefits of renewable energy, save customers money, cut carbon emissions and remove people from fuel poverty is fantastic.

And your worst?

I am a firm believer that there is no such thing as a bad decision providing you learn something from it.

What is the best advice you can give to someone starting out in your business?

If you do not believe in what your business stands for then don’t bother. You will have so many doubters and obstacles in your way that you need to have an undying belief that what you are doing is right.

What is the secret of good management?

Nobody has told me yet — but I think it mainly revolves around having the ability to stay firm to your beliefs — but do not be so closed off that you do not listen to those around you.

Do you have a good work/life balance?

When you have founded your own company you tend to live and breathe it. Having said that, I am passionate about what we are doing so I do not really mind that it takes up so much of my time.

What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?

My two sons play football so my hobbies tend to be theirs. I do not mind the odd round of golf every now and then when I have the time.

Is there anything in business that really irritates you?

Style over substance. When people tell me they are going to do something I expect them to do it.

How do you see your company developing over the next five years?

I see a really exciting outlook for Ice Energy. Green issues and rising fuel prices are front page news and it is only a matter of time before people realise that renewable energy makes good long-term sense and that it is a sustainable investment.

What has been your most satisfying moment?

To date it would be the large part we played in a project in Suffolk working alongside a housing association. With our advice and input a large development has been built where the properties have no running costs whatsoever for their heating, hot water or even the lighting.

Do you believe there is enough help and support from government and agencies for growing businesses?

Our business hinges on the Government’s wider agenda relating to green issues and energy policy. We see a lot of good things being said by ministers but with little action. Clarity and direction from Westminster would be greatly appreciated.

What is your attitude to the environment and do you have any green policies in place?

Being in the renewables sector the environment is at the heart of our company. We adopt a number of standard green policies such as fuel efficient company cars and the recycling of waste paper but we are more about encouraging our clients to adopt greener practices.

What is the secret of a happy workforce?

Staying busy! It is also about feeling part of a team. All our staff will make a huge contribution to making this company successful over the next few years as this industry grows which I hope will bring them a great deal of satisfaction.

Is there any other job you would like to have done and why?

I would have loved to have been a professional golfer. You get to travel the world and earn lots of money without really having to ever break sweat.

What would you like to do when you retire?

I would like to spend some time in Portugal. I love their relaxed and laidback way of life.