Has 2024 been a year to remember, or one you’ll be glad to see the back of?
Definitely memorable and at times quite tough sitting firmly as one of the top 5 challenging years of my 39 with Yamaha. However, I don’t like to say ‘good riddance’ to any year as there is always learnings and it is worth keeping in mind that even though it has been a challenge I am glad and fortunate to be able to still be a part of the action.
What has been the biggest challenge this year?
The business environment was going to be a challenge no matter. However, we probably should of done a few things differently given how the music industry has evolved in recent times post COVID so we definitely learned something that we will take forward. It is this ability to adapt and evolve quickly that makes me so proud of the Yamaha team and those brilliant partners that work with us to get all of us through to a place where we see a win win.
What is one moment from 2024 that makes you smile when you think about it?
Can I say that my biggest smile came when Anthony (Short) actually picked up a drinks bill ? This is an easy one for me , the UK Yamaha organisation is the biggest contributor to overseas staff that now work in our Japanese HQ and also our European HQ. In total we have 19 former UK staff members working at HQ level , 3 in Japan. I always get a kick when I see another one of our local talents identified to step up and in the last year we had a few more of these .
What’s the one thing you didn’t get around to in 2024 that is top of your to-do list for 2025?
Finishing my expense claims on time!
What’s your favourite Christmas song?
Probably Fairy Tale of New York , it has that blend of sentiment and passion that Christmas can evoke in us all.
What’s the one food that you can’t do without at this time of year?
Having been on a strict diet for months now I have a number of answers but I guess the one I have been thinking about is some nice cheeses along with a good glass of Port!
What does Christmas day look like for you?
We normally end up hosting family along with some waifs and strays who otherwise may be on their own. My daughter in law will be working a night shift from Christmas eve so they wont get to us until early afternoon but then the festivities will begin. The wife will take over the kitchen and all will know not to cross the threshold whilst she works her magic in there. Afterwards I am on cleaning duty and then the games begin and some of that Cheese and port will appear.
