What was your first job and what did your responsibilities include?

I was a porter in the Bath saleroom of Phillips Auctioneers. My responsibilities were to set out the auction ready for viewing, look after clients when they came to view and help them with their bought lots afterwards. Then I had to clear down the saleroom and start all over again. We had 40 sales a year so it was pretty busy.

How much was in your first pay packet and what did you spend it on?

About £500 after tax, more than half of which went on rent and the rest on having a good time.

Describe how your career developed to the present day.

When I started as a porter, I always wanted to be an auctioneer and valuer. Even though I had a degree in Fine Art Valuation, I had to start on the shop floor — it was the only way I was going to learn.

I spent seven years at that auction house, I ended up running a department, an auctioneers and the in-house valuer. However my television career was growing and the company didn’t agree with that, so I left and moved to Kent and worked in Tunbridge Wells, and Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex — a good place for an auction house.

I spent three years working the South East, a great job, but I was wanting something more. I saw an advert in our trade press — an auction house was up for sale. I sent my friend and future business partner Neil Shuttleworth over to have a look. We decided to go for a phased takeover and we took control of Special Auction Services in September 2006.

What are the key responsibilities in your position?

I am one of the directors, but I look upon myself as a business winner. I go and see as many clients as I can, looking to get goods on for sale. I am also the jewellery and silver valuer and one of the auctioneers.

Describe a typical day No day is the same in an auction house. If an auction is imminent it’s all hands to the pumps. If not, I usually get in the office for about 10am (I know that is a little slack but I have 14-month old twins and they will always be first). I leave around 6.30pm. Most of the time is spent sourcing goods, processing them and writing the catalogue.

Who/what have been the biggest influences on your career?

The ‘what’ has always been ‘to be honest and run a fair ship to all who come to sell and buy.’ The ‘who’ is difficult. My father, Stewart, would certainly be there, and the ethics of Phillips Auctioneers.

What has been your best decision?

Taking over Special Auction Services.

And your worst?

Forcing the issue. At our first auction we had too many lots, so there were five people in the room and two of them were staff.

What is the best advice you can give to someone starting out in your business?

You must start on the shop floor and just handle as much as you can, ask questions and try and learn from everyone.

What is the secret of good management?

If someone could tell me, I would be grateful.

Do you have a good work/life balance?

I would like to think so. However, the media work I do takes up a lot of time I should spend at home.

What hobbies/interests do you enjoy in your spare time?

I am a little married to the job. I love the arts and I am never happier than when going to another auction or an antiques fair. I am a sabre fencer and met Neil in the Tunbridge Wells club. I also love to ski — I was a racer in my youth.

Is there anything in business that really irritates you?

Business rates and taxes.

How do you see your company developing over the next five years?

By increasing our market share in all departments. This will be done by moving to a bigger premises, increasing the lot average and finding new vendors and buyers.

What has been your most satisfying moment?

Watching old clients walk through the door when you first start up. Their support means so much to you at that time.

Do you believe there is enough help and support from government and agencies for growing businesses?

I believe there could be more. However, I understand in this present climate it is going to be very difficult.

What is your attitude to the environment and do you have any green policies in place?

Can you name a greener business? We are the original recyclers! We are members of the Antiques are Green campaign to promote the green credentials of antiques.

What is the secret of a happy workforce?

To be fair to everyone.

Is there any other job you would like to have done and why?

I would have loved to have done a three-year commission in the Army with 1st Regiment Royal Horse Artillery. I spent five years in the school cadet force and loved it. I always admire the men and women in our armed services.

What would you like to do when you retire?

I love this trade — I have done since the day I started. Anyone who is in the antiques business doesn’t retire — you just keep on going at a slightly slower pace. You just hope the knowledge doesn’t leave you.