In the spotlight this week is David Sturgess from Edwards & Co Solicitors in Belfast
What was your first job?
At 17 I had a summer job working for the Carrickfergus Council parks department cutting grass, working outside all day and earning a good wage. It was hard work but great fun.
What qualifications do you have?
I have a Bachelor of Laws degree from Manchester University and a Post Graduate Diploma from the Institute of Professional Legal Studies at Queen's. I was admitted to the Roll of Solicitors in 1997.
What do you attribute your success to?
My success is attributed to my commitment to putting clients first.
I believe that going the extra mile for clients has got me to where I am today. Forging and nurturing the client relationship is the most important skill in business. The satisfaction from helping my clients achieve their desired objective and striving to exceed their expectations is what drives me.
How would you describe yourself to someone who'd never met you?
I am a quiet, yet confident person and I like to think exactly the type of person you'd turn to in a crisis.
A cool head under pressure, I am able to see the wood for the trees when clients need a focused adviser.
Who do you look up to in business?
My late grandfather was chairman of the Ulster Weaving Company. His drive, commitment and determination in working his way up from an accounts clerk to the head of the company still inspires me to this day.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you? Collaboration is very important. Ensuring that people feel valued, no matter who they are, where they might work or what they do, is vital. I believe a small gesture or a thank you can go a very long way. At Edwards & Co we place huge importance on a progressive and sensitive approach in all our work.
What website could you not do without?
Websites like Practical Law (uk.practicallaw.com) are a good reference point for work, however I couldn't do without Twitter - especially since joining Edwards & Co. I am quickly learning that if you aren't on #Belfasthour then you are missing out. This is a great initiative set up by the firm to encourage businesses across Northern Ireland to connect with one another and I'm looking forward to being a part of it.
What's your greatest passion outside work and family?
As a former rugby player and avid fan, I continue with my passion coaching at Cooke mini rugby at the weekend. My 10 year-old son plays and my wife helps out, providing some essential cups of hot tea on an all too familiar cold Saturday morning. Thankfully it has become a family affair for us as it takes up most of my time outside of work. It is hugely rewarding as I love seeing the kids progress and improve, even if it's just seeing a quiet child come out of their shell.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in their career? Set your goal, be dogged in your pursuit of it and don't settle for anything less.