Gerard Irving (47), Job Marketing manager, NGK Spark Plugs (UK)

 

How did you get into the automotive business?
Originally joined the RAF and trained in mechanical engineering (automotive).

What does your job entail?
All of NGK’s marketing communications, including exhibitions and promotions. Quality control of all marketing communications going out from NGK is an essential part of the job.

How will your job change over the next few years?
NGK will continue to grow and major technological advances in our products will mean we need an ever more sophisticated marketing operation.

Other jobs?
I worked for Godfrey Holmes as a branch manager.

What advice would you give to young people joining the industry?
Be prepared to start at the bottom and work your way up.

What’s the worst career move you’ve ever made?
Joined Northern Foods only for them to close the distribution centre a year later and we were all made redundant.

And the best?
Joining NGK, which gave me the opportunity to work across several areas.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
Working towards retirement.

Favourite book
Any of the Clarkson series.
 
Favourite holiday   
A 26-day trip along the west coast of America.

Favourite film
Space Jam.

Favourite music
Absolutely anything.

First car
MK1 Ford Cortina.

Dream car
Bugatti Veyron.

Luxury item
Private plane.