Martyn Capewell, chief executive of Corinthian Insurance, used to want to be a Butlins Redcoat but has never owned a pair of jeans.
What newspaper do you read?
The Times.
What career did you want to have when you were a child?
Butlins Redcoat
What was the worst business decision you have ever made?
Underwriting a scheme for a particular British sports car
What do you like best about insurance?
Anyone can reach the top if they have the ambition to do so
What would you do tomorrow if you left the insurance industry?
Write a book about management in insurance
How do you relax if you do not play golf?
West Bromwich Albion is my only sporting profession
What is the biggest insurance claim you have ever made?
I have never made one
Whom do you most admire?
Richard Branson for his entrepreneurial skills
Do you have an unfulfilled ambition?
No – I have achieved all I set out to do. Now I just do it for the enjoyment
On dress down Friday, what do you wear?
I have never owned a pair of jeans and do not feel dressed without a tie and hankie
How many people have you sacked?
Only the ones that deserved it
Where did you grow up?
Birmingham
What was your first job?
Adjustments Clerk with Warwick Insurance in 1970
What advice would you give someone starting in insurance today?
You must get a CII qualification to achieve the broadness of vision to reach your goals
What is your favourite quote?
“Madam, you're ugly.”
“Mr Churchill, you're drunk.”
“Yes Madam, but in the morning I'll be sober.”
What keeps you awake at night?
Too much alcohol
What was your education?
Took CII exams after comprehensive
education
What is your favourite film?
Cinema Paradiso
What is your favourite book?
An English Journey – JB Priestly
What is your favourite tea?
Assam
What is your favourite joke?
“What's the difference between paraffin and petrol?”
“There's no ‘f' in petrol.”
How often do you use public transport?
At least once a week when I take the train and tube from Hitchin into London
Who do you vote for?
I am a floating voter between the Conservative and Liberal parties
Are you in favour of the Euro? Yes/No?
Definitely no
