60-second interview: Adam Fairbotham, director, vehicle outservicing, Ryder

My favourite holiday destination is...

Sri Lanka, as it’s an interesting island, with spectacular coastlines and lovely people.
 

I drive a...

BMW 435 Gran Coupe M sport.
 

My hobbies include...

Watching Formula 1 live and on TV, and swimming.
 

I got into the industry when...

I was interested in the transport industry and commercial vehicles from an early age, on leaving school at 18 I secured a short-term contract delivering truck parts for Volvo dealer Crossroad Commercials. It was a great way to learn how a commercial vehicle works and how important vehicle up time is to customers. I secured a role as operations assistant at a truck and trailer rental company CSL, which led to roles at Hill Hire and now Ryder.
 

To encourage more young people into the industry we should...

Make sure we tell them how diverse and dynamic the industry can be. At Ryder we run an annual apprenticeship scheme, which has been successful. The scheme produces staff with prospects to progress in the organisation.
 

The outlook for our sector over the next 12 months is...

Unpredictable. However at Ryder Used Approved we have re-engineered our business and we believe that coupled with the variety of used vehicles we prepare weekly, and the focus on customers, we can expect a positive 12 months.

This article was published in the 29 September issue of Commercial Motor. Why not subscribe to get 12 issues for just £12?