I started working with Octavius Hunt in 1987 as PA to the owner at the time. I became Commercial Director after one year and Managing Director in 1992 following the owner selling the business to Chemring Group Plc. I was successful in purchasing the business from Chemring in 1999 and continued to successfully run the business until I sold it in another management buy-out in 2005. I have remained involved in the business at director level providing management guidance and support as well as strategic planning.

Pollastrip Ltd. were manufacturers of flexible PVC strip for use in strip doors. I was responsible for a wide variety of the company's activities - particularly monthly sales and stock reports, all aspects of marketing, as well as sole responsibility for the company's largest U.S. Sales account worth £1 million per annum. I had 18 members of staff reporting to me.