My Influences: Peter O’Toole

Entrepreneur you admire

Sir Terry Matthews. His success rate is simply outstanding. He has started around 90 companies and has rarely made mistakes. I admire his business model of harnessing the skills of graduates and young people to develop the workforce of tomorrow. The development of the Celtic Manor Resort puts Newport and South Wales on the map, and I’m proud to be a part of it.

Favourite Film

Lawrence of Arabia. Not just because of my namesake but because it is a great film and one I will never tire of. Peter O’Toole was a great actor and a great man.

Music/Band

I love anything in the Reggae/Soul genre, with Bob Marley being a favourite. Listening to a bit of reggae in the evening helps me unwind after a long day in the office or working with a retailer.

Favourite TV Show

Gavin and Stacey. As a born-and-raised Barry boy, it brings me back to my roots, promoting the place I love. It’s funny, too! I wish they never dropped it, although rumour has it that they’re launching a movie soon – I hope so!

Theatre

Jersey Boys. I’ve seen it in New York and thought it was fantastic. It’s about boys that have come from nothing and made it in life. I can relate to that.

Holiday Destination

Cape Town. You have to have been there to appreciate its magic. The views, the environment, the people, the food, the wine! I could go on. It’s far and away the best place in the world I’ve ever been.

Book

Alex Ferguson’s new autobiography. The book provides a real insight into the real ‘man’ behind the manager; what made him tick, how he motivated his team and how he built relationships with those close to him.

A Person You Admire

My father. He was a very strong person in my life and is the reason I’m like I am today. He is somebody I’ve always aspired to and I’ll never fill his shoes. He was totally grounded and morals and values mean the world to me. A very well respected man.

One Piece of advice to a new Start Up

Don’t give up. Never throw in the towel. If I had quit when told that my ideas weren’t possible, I would not be where I am today. If you want to succeed, you have to persevere. Don’t be scared to make mistakes.