on the record

is the chief executive of Leeds Teaching Hospitals trust. A former management trainee, he was general manager for acute and maternity services at Pontefract General Infirmary before becoming operations director of St James' and Seacroft University Hospitals trust in 1990 and its chief executive in May 1992.

What is the first thing you do when you arrive at work?

Speak to people, drink coffee and plan the day.

What do you like/dislike about your job?

I like the variety, challenge and people. I dislike the paperchase.

What do your colleagues think of you?

At the moment there are mixed views, but I am generally considered to be fair, honest and a listener.

What is your proudest achievement?

Becoming chief executive of Leeds Teaching Hospitals.

What is your tip for success?

Be yourself and earn respect.

What has been your worst business mistake?

Considering a move which would not have been in my own best interests.

What do you do to relax?

Take regular breaks away from the telephone etc - and with the family.

What book has influenced you?

Beyond Certainty by Charles Handy.

How would you like to be remembered?

As a chief executive who was genuinely committed to the NHS and the people in it.

Which person in the NHS do you most admire?

There is no one person - but I admire many of the managers I have worked for and people I have worked with.

What would make the single biggest improvement to the NHS?

Honesty about its capacity to meet the increasing demands on its resources - and about the effectiveness of current resource management.

Who is your ideal health secretary?

I don't know - but the current one is doing okay.