01732 759725 50 DSolutions has been a fantastic addition to the range of machines we supply and has given dealers a real differential when up against far bigger (and usually cheaper) competitors. I love to see new people becoming Develop dealers. I still believe that what we have here is truly unique. I work with an amazing group of people, they aren’t just colleagues, they are family to me, I am more motivated than ever to help this business grow and try to pass some of my experience on to the guys like young Archie Whitworth (Northern Dealer Manager) who have started their own journey in this brilliant industry. What’s been the most defining moment in your career so far, and how did it shape your approach to leadership? I would have to say being given the opportunity to become the Sales Director here at Develop UK, Jonathan Whitworth has placed a lot of trust in me and has supported me massively throughout my career here. I am still learning every day. My approach is very simple: lead by example, keep showing up, be honest, loyal, do what you say you are going to do, support your customers/sales team, have fun, and try your very best to be a decent human. What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received and how has it influenced your journey? The best piece of business advice I have received so far is that you can’t reason with an unreasonable person. This doesn’t mean that you can’t work well together though. There is usually some common ground, you just need to find it somewhere but don’t beat yourself up if you can’t! If you had had a crystal ball, would you have done anything differently? Yes, I’d have started playing golf at a much earlier age! As for my career, I wouldn’t change a thing, I am here now because of the journey I have taken and I am extremely happy. When did you first join the print sector and what attracted you? Ok, let me switch my old brain on for a minute and go back. Sitting on the settee, enjoying no responsibilities, mum’s lovely food, life was great. Then in came my dad and said: “Up you get James, we’re going to find you a job.” The next day I started my role as a 16-year-old trainee telesales rep at an Infotec dealer in Cannock. I can’t say I was attracted to the print sector at all to be honest, it just kind of happened. I still have really fond memories of my first boss, Tony Freeman, may he rest in peace. What a really lovely man he was, really steered me in the right direction many times. What’s the most rewarding part of your current role, and what keeps you motivated day to day? I get such huge satisfaction when I hear that one of our Develop partners has won business because of the additional support that we have given them. James Hosking, Sales Director, Develop UK 60 seconds with…. AND FINALLY What would be your dream job? I’d be a great Top Gun; can you tell by my choice of sunglasses? Talk to me Goose. Money’s not an issue, what’s your perfect car…and where would you like to drive it? I really enjoy travelling all around Scotland with my family and little Dachshund Reuben, he comes everywhere with us so maybe someone would like to build me a beast of a 4x4 campervan that doesn’t rattle, and with a hot shower! Fine dining and good wine or a curry and a pint? Fine dining for lunch and a curry at midnight. What a great day, does anyone fancy joining me? How do you like to spend your spare time? When I am not travelling or walking the dog, you will more than likely find me on a golf course. Favourite app, and why? Golfshot. No surprise there. Helps me with my yardages when playing golf. Favourite holiday destination? Unfortunately, our little sausage dog can’t have a passport, not because he’s a menace (which he is) but because of allergic reactions to the vaccines required. So, we have spent the last nine years visiting all of the amazing places around the UK, my favourite so far is probably The Outer Hebrides, Barra, Lewis and Harris. Just stunning. The little chap loves the beach. Last film you watched? I Swear on Netflix, a life story about a Scottish chap who has Tourette’s Syndrome. Not my usual watch but was a really interesting drama. Prior to this was War Machine with Alan Ritchson – I love a bit of Sci-Fi. James Hosking
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