Paul Asplin, managing director DAS, really wanted to get into radio but these days he's in a spin about insurance

What newspaper do you read?
Daily Telegraph, Financial Times.

What career did you want to have when you were a child?
DJ on a pirate radio ship.

What was the worst business decision you have ever made?
Underwriting uninsured loss recovery schemes for certain other legal protection companies. Guaranteed to lose money.

What do you like best about insurance?
Helping people out when they have a problem and supporting the little guy when he's up against it.

What would you do tomorrow if you left the insurance industry?
Move somewhere sunny for the winter and think about it from there.

How do you relax if you do not play golf?
I like to watch Bristol City FC or, in the unlikely event it's not raining, I'll take my motorcycle for a ride.

What is the biggest insurance claim you have ever made?
£1,700 for a collapsed ceiling caused by a water leak. Paid very promptly by
Ecclesiastical.

Who do you most admire?
People who succeed in the face of adversity.

Do you have an unfulfilled ambition?
I would have liked to have done something in commercial radio.

On dress down Friday, what do you wear?
Jeans and an open-neck shirt.

How many people have you sacked?
Very few, I'm pleased to say... but I'm sure they deserved it.

What is your favourite quote?
“I can resist anything except temptation” (Oscar Wilde).

What is your most over-used phrase?
Can I have a pint of Stella please.

What keeps you awake at night?
Nothing.

What advice would you give someone starting in insurance today?
Turn up on time, smile and listen carefully.

Where did you grow up?
Bristol.

What was your education?
I attended Queen Elizabeth's Hospital School in Bristol.

What was your first job?
I used to work on the all-night bar and buffet at Bristol Temple Meads railway station.

What is your favourite joke?
I'm not a complete idiot; some parts are missing.

What is your favourite tea?
I don't like tea

How often do you use public transport?
I'm a regular “customer” of Great Western Trains – and the trains are always late – and
a frequent flyer.

Who do you vote for?
I would really have to think about it if there was an election tomorrow.

How did you vote in the last election?
I put a cross in the box.

Are you in favour of the Euro? Yes/No?
No.