Mark Seastron
Company:
Europa
Job title:
Divisional Director
How did you get into the sector:
I joined hospitality group Welcome Break after an early career in high street retail.
What do you enjoy about your role:
I’ve always enjoyed coaching and developing people to perform at their best and deliver great results, whilst achieving their own ambitions to progress in their careers.
Career high:
There have been quite a few, although I think winning the 2006 Sales Award for Sodexo is probably the highlight.
Career low:
Leaving the Managing Director’s job with Sodexo in Cyprus to return to the UK.
What are your plans for the next year:
I am delighted to be joining Europa in January 2012 and I’m looking forward to working in a very successful people-focused business.
What was the biggest break of your career:
Being offered the Retail Director role in Welcome Break less than 12 months after joining the business as a Site Director.
What are you most proud of in your career:
I’m most proud of my track record of results in different sectors and hugely varied job roles.
What advice would you give to people keen to progress in the industry:
Build strong teams around you, be open to their ideas and never underestimate what people are capable of. Always keep front of mind that this is primarily a people industry.
Who inspires you:
I’m inspired by great leaders and I’ve been lucky enough to work for a couple during my career to date.
What do you do in your downtime:
I spend most of my spare time entertaining our two year old son, but I also enjoy long walks with the dogs and watching football, cricket and NFL.
What question do you always ask in interviews:
What’s the strategic direction for the business over the next 3 years?
Tips that have made you a success:
Be honest, look after people and let your results do the talking.