Working in consultancy, I gained an unparalleled experience over 28 years, 20 at Partner or Director level. I was invited to set up a new office which went on to grow to 110+ staff, managed the relocation of large teams, combined offices and acquired businesses. I was a board member in a worldwide practice, during which time I managed 360+ staff across offices in England, Scotland and Ireland. I loved the work and the people it brought me into contact with; it demanded a lot of time talking with colleagues and Clients. I also mentored partners and staff who looked to me for development, guidance and personal advice on a wide range of subjects. I also led on many construction projects, managing the cost and programme of schemes as diverse as airports to offices, hospitals to Formula 1, small to large renovation projects including historic buildings, as well as winning much of the fee income the office needed to grow. I’ve been through the sale of two large businesses, on one occasion being intimately involved in the detailed negotiation of the sale on behalf of all Partners.Two years after the sale I felt it was time for a new challenge, so aged 49, I left to build a business investing in property. I also work as a Trustee in the local branch of a national charity and sit on their property and finance sub-committees.I've recently started volunteering as a mentor to businesses on behalf of the Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce.