Images magazine Digital Edition April 2018

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS www.images-magazine.com 88 images APRIL 2018 You know the name, now get to know the person. Rob Smith, director of Wilcom Europe, talks about his love for South Beach, Come Dine With Me and dance tunes UPCLOSE AND PERSONAL How and when did you start your career in the industry? I started in May 1999; prior to that I was working in the formal hire industry, renting out black tie and wedding outfits. I had a friend who leased out workwear, boiler suits etc and was looking to personalise them with logos and clients’ names. I assisted him with this project and that’s how I got to know the embroidery industry. I was searching the local job section in The Yorkshire Post where there was a job for a UK sales executive in software. It turned out to be for Wilcom and, as they say, the rest is history. What’s the best thing that’s ever happened to you at work? A paid trip to Florida after completing yearly forecasts. I managed to visit Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, and took a trip down the Florida Keys. What’s your guilty pleasure? Watching Come Dine With Me. I like to see the contestants complaining about each other’s food offerings. Is there another job that you’ve always wanted to do? Father Christmas. He only works one day a year. Where is the best place you’ve ever visited? South Beach, Miami. The atmosphere and social scene is fantastic. Which gadget couldn’t you live without? I wouldn’t be able to live without my laptop – it’s my communication tool back home when I’m working, as well as my music and my Netflix (other apps are available). If you could ask one person (living or dead) one question, what would you ask? I’m too busy watching Come Dine With Me on catch up to ask people questions! Which three phrases would your best friend use to describe your personality? Trustworthy, good listener and great company on a night out. What’s your favourite word or phrase? It is what it is. Salt and vinegar or cheese and onion? Salt and vinegar (McCoys). Which tune can’t you get out of your head at the moment? I’ve always had an ear for music after working in bar security in my younger years. At the moment it’s Breathe by Jax Jones and featuring Ina Wroldsen. I’m a secret dance tune diva. What’s your hidden talent? A photographic memory for people, places and software deals quoted! What’s your greatest ambition? Nothing extravagant: to live a healthy and prosperous life and believe that I’ve contributed to society, and to look after my family. Rob on his first day at Wilcom in 1999 Miami is Rob’s favourite spot