Over the course of the year, the spotlight will be on members of Girlings Solicitors’ team, their backgrounds, roles, and unique perspective, so you can get to know the people that are working hard for you.
Name: David Redgate
Office: Canterbury
Job title: Partner - Commercial Property
What was your first job and what was the pay packet?
At sixteen I worked as a match day steward at Brands Hatch, cycling a ten mile round trip up, what is known locally as, ‘Death Hill’ to work ten hours for the princely sum of £25.
What do you always carry with you to work?
My ‘homework’, a dictaphone, paper, pens and of course some Girlings mints!
What is the biggest challenge facing your business?
As a Commercial Property lawyer it would have to be the increasing tide of regulation that we have to deal with as well as lenders restricting work to panels.
If you were Prime Minister, what one thing would you change to help business?
A comprehensive review of tax laws to create a fairer system and one that does not stifle business growth, but supports positive development.
What can you see from your office window?
Whitefriars multi-storey car park - quite handsome as far as car parks go and with the added benefit in the Winter of full beam headlights to illuminate my desk!
If you could do another job what would it be?
I am inspired by the work of The Aspinall Foundation and similar organisations and would like to work in a conservation role to improve animal welfare and preserve endangered species.
What is the biggest mistake businesses often make?
Owners not learning to delegate when their business gets to a certain size and realising that they can’t do it all and need support both internally and from external advisors.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Do your homework, plan and never let go of your ambition.
Who do you most admire in business?
I admire clients who have found a niche and worked hard to grow their business from humble beginnings to a thriving enterprise. Kevin Byrne, founder of Checkatrade is a good example.
Find out more about David here.
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