My philosophy on business is that it isn’t about making a quick buck. Instead it’s about investing time and energy for the long-term, focusing on the here and now in order to grow a company for the next generation.I started my professional life following in my grandfather’s footsteps as a qualified lawyer, but a hankering for something more exciting led me to join my family’s toy company in 1979. With my strategic direction and my brother’s skill as a trader, we built up the business, took on, staff, developed teams, formulated growth plans and, more importantly, achieved them. As a result, Halsall’s grew to become the UK’s largest privately owned toy company, with a turnover to £72 million, offices in the UK and Far East and a staff of 120, before it was sold in 2006.As a man who thrives on being busy, I was ready for the next big challenge and on hearing Silver Cross had gone into receivership, acquired the company three days later. As Chairman I have created teams of talented people who have built on my ideas and helped me grow Silver Cross into the multi-million pound success story it is today, introducing this iconic British brand to 45 countries worldwide.Honesty and integrity are in the company’s DNA and provide the foundations for the genuine respect that’s shown to customers, suppliers and staff alike. I’m a great believer in making decisions and love my staff to use their initiative and do the same – my motto is, “Don’t just talk about it, go for it!” I love what I do and never cease to get a buzz when I’m travelling the world and see a new mother getting pleasure from pushing her baby in a Silver Cross pram.Back home in Lytham, I indulge my passion for horseracing as the owner of some moderately successful winners, as well as spending time playing golf and skiing. Fascinated by UK politics, I am also a member of the Carlton Club and co-chair of Business for Britain.Specialties: I enjoy speaking engagements where I talk about the history of Silver Cross and the development of this great British brand. If you would like me to speak at your event, please call me at Silver Cross on 01756 702412.