When he's not in the office, Nick Marlow likes to relieve the stress of being an MD with a little rock 'n' roll. The Managing Director of Worcestershire-based business software and IT support provider, Minster Micro Computers, Nick talks to Business Quarter (bqlive.co.uk) on why he believes in the importance of everyone taking ownership.
Describe your role in brief
I am responsible, alongside the rest of the senior leadership team, for setting the long-term strategic direction of the company, our business development strategy and ensuring that our team of 20 specialists deliver the systems and software we promise to clients.
What is it the company does?
In a nutshell, we are a business software and systems provider that supplies a variety of solutions that help businesses to operate effectively. We provide payroll and security software, training and a full range of IT support services. We are also an accredited SAP Business One Partner and a provider of Pegasus software products.
Based centrally in the Midlands, we have clients across the UK and think the region positions us perfectly to service their needs but also grow our client base into new geographical areas.
Give us a brief timeline of your career so far where did you start, how did you move on?
My first role was at Decca, a UK electronics firm where I studied an HNC in electronic engineering. Whilst at Decca I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to understand more about the sector, learn from some fantastic people, and understand what a difference great customer service can make. From there I moved to Minster Micro, then owned by Pegasus Software, in 1982. After four years, I took the bold step and purchased Minster Micro from Pegasus in 1986. I have been in the hot seat ever since.
What do you believe makes a good leader?
To me, being a good leader is someone with conviction and a vision. A leader should be credible and someone who has the ability to get their team marching behind them.
What has been your biggest challenge in your current position?
I think my biggest challenge, and the firms biggest challenge, has been the further recruitment of talented, committed staff with the right skillset. Therefore we like to look after our current staff and investing in our people. Just some of our initiatives now include regular reviews, personal development plans and a really successful graduate scheme. Putting ownership of projects into the hands of our people is paramount.
How do you alleviate the stress that comes with your job?
Rock n roll! I play in a local band and this helps to relieve stress and give me other things to focus on. Of course, our two kids and our dog Dave keep my wife and I busy away from work. I wouldnt have it any other way.
When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
If you were to ask my mum this question she would say I wanted to be in the army so that I could come home at dinner time in my jeep to have fish fingers and chips! Obviously, in reality this dream turned out very differently!
Any pet hates in the work place? What do you do about them?
I think thats ownership. I like people to take responsibility for their workload, their projects, but also their mistakes and how they plan to rectify them as opposed to being spoon fed. Its how people learn and not make the same mistake again.
Where do you see the company in five years time?
I see us with a larger team of experts, providing more support to a bigger number of businesses and connecting where it counts with clients. Were on a really exciting journey of growth at the moment and have a fantastic future ahead.