60-second interview: Paul Davey, commercial director, Michelin solutions UK and Republic of Ireland

60-second interview: Paul Davey, commercial director, Michelin solutions UK and Republic of Ireland

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Lyme Regis, my wife is from there, and we always go out of season for the peace and quiet.

What car do you drive?
BMW 5 series

Hobbies?
All sport, particularly rugby, horse racing and football. Watching not participating these days.

How did you get into the industry and why?
By chance really. I was 16 and joined Michelin in the Fulham Road. I never imagined then that I would deliver more than 40 years of service.

How would you encourage more young people into the industry?
I think there are a number of opportunities, ranging from research and development roles, through to manufacturing and commerce. There are also opportunities for international appointments that really broaden an individual’s experience.

What is the outlook for your sector of the market over the next 12 months?
It will continue to be very competitive, so being innovative is critical. Our focus at Michelin solutions will be on offering the market ways of contractually reducing an operator’s spend, which in turn improves their profitability.