My first ever job was as a 16-year-old youngster, stacking shelves on Saturdays in our local Co-op store, which seemed to me to play an important role in local community life. I remember feeling safe, respected and valued and enjoying interaction with the customers and colleagues. Sometimes I was allowed on the checkout, where I gained my first experience of handling the cash!

The die was cast – my professional life was destined to be in finance and management. I started as a clerk in the cashier’s office with British Rail. They gave me an incredible opportunity to study and work in their full time fast-track Management Training Scheme, helping me to qualify as a professional accountant and equipping me for my first management role.

A career in corporate finance and commerce developed, moving into the private sector and working at a senior level for both large blue-chip PLCs and in board roles for small and medium sized companies. It culminated in my role as CFO of a young, high-tech company, which I floated on the London Stock Exchange.

Following my time in the corporate world I changed tack to embark with my partner on a period of exploration and an entrepreneurial career, firstly in yacht-chartering and then in land-based hospitality combined with growing and selling our own agricultural products in a co-operative environment. Through our local farmers’ co-operative, I sourced plants, organic treatments and fertilisers, accessed equipment, training and assistance and processed and marketed my crops. In turn I provided financial expertise to local growers.

Having settled back in Southern England some four years ago, I now divide my time between helping local charities (both as a trustee and providing them with independent financial guidance), engaging in community activities (cycling, reading and film groups), pursuing an artistic practice in painting and drawing and rediscovering my lifelong love of sailing.