Describe a typical day in the world of Rupert?
Get woken u pat 7am by my children, get on my bike and cycle 8 miles to work, start work at 8.30am. I always check my e-mails first thing and then have all meetings between 11am and 3pm. Every day is so different and my time is split between managing the business, driving the sales team and developing new Initiatives. Never a dull moment.
What do you love most about your job?
There are two things. Firstly seeing the growth and profits on the bottom line through the efforts of the team. Secondly, the emotional side of the job. I like motivating employees and seeing them succeed. Recently a staff member gave me a bottle of wine for something that I had done for them, that made my day.
What is the hardest thing about this industry?
The hours
Who inspires you in life and in the industry?
My dad is the greatest person that has influenced me and from a business point of view I take my inspiration from leaders of all types of industry. Someone I particularly admire is Adam Crozier the CEO of the Post Office. He has an almost impossible job.
What do your friends/family think of your job?
Amazing!
What is the biggest mistake you ever made at work?
I allowed a chef to serve ham sandwiches to Jewish guests – this did not go down well.
Is it true that you ride 40 kilometres every Saturday morning on your bike?
Yes. I have upped my game. I now do between 60 and 80 kilometres!
What has been your biggest career achievement?
Coming the Vinopolis and managing this business through the recession.
If you could go back in time and give yourself one bit of career advice what would that be?
I stayed at my first employer too long (8 Years!)
What is the most expensive thing you own?
My house
Marmite – love it or hate it?
Hate it
Gurkin or gurkout?
Gurkout
Coke or pepsi?
Coke
Favourite chocolate bar?
Snickers
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Still deciding however for as long as you work you are always working for someone. Even if you are at the top you are working for the bank or your customers. Some people say “I am my own boss” I don’t believe this exists – you are always working for someone
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