Kim Davis is managing director of Explain Market Research, which has recently moved into offices in Earl Grey House on Newcastle's Grey Street. The firm boasts clients across the º£½ÇÊÓƵ including several water companies, the º£½ÇÊÓƵ’s electricity and gas distribution networks and NHS Trusts.
What was your first job (and how much did it pay)? My first job was a Christmas temp job at Adams Childrenswear in Newcastle. I loved it and as that ended I began work at Greggs – and I loved that too! From what I remember the rate of pay from memory was around £1.80 per hour.
What is the best advice or support you’ve been given in business? The best advice I’ve ever been given is don’t be afraid to employ people that are much more competent than you.
What are the main changes you’ve seen in your business/sector, and what are the challenges you’re facing? As with most sectors, adapting to being more digital and streamlined has been the biggest change in our industry. However, as we’re all about thoughts and opinions, sometimes good old-fashioned conversations are the best source of insights for us.
What would your dream job be? I’m already living the dream. I’ve always aspired to run my own business and have zero regrets in the career choices I’ve made. But if I had to give it all up – maybe some sort of international chocolate taster if that role exists.
What advice would you give to someone starting out a career in your sector? Hard work really does pay off. Developing your relationship building skills and project management techniques will significantly pay off in the long run.
What makes the North East a good place to do business? The collaboration across businesses and sectors here in the North East makes for a vibrant business community. There is a general sense of wanting other people and businesses succeed, which is very positive and one of the many things I love about living and working here in the region.
How important is it for business to play a role in society? To me this is incredibly important as it’s fundamental to ensuring wholesome and thriving communities. As well as any financial contributions organisations can make to their communities, the softer aspects in supporting local initiatives with time and expertise can be invaluable. There’s a mutual benefit with this for centrally managed business like ours too as our people are also your local society and it is important to invest in the people who make your business what it is and champion the causes that are important to them.
Outside of work, what are you really good at? Fundamentally not worrying about work and making the most of the time I have to do other things, particularly with my family.
Who would play you in a film about your life? Kate Winslet was suggested by my colleague Holly.
Which three people would you invite to a dinner party, and why? It would have to be my three business partners Holly, Becca and Emma. They’re fun to be with, we have great conversations and they really like their food!
