Gay Haines
In 2006 Gay Haines created Grace Blue, a global headhunting firm for the communications sector, to look after the most senior assignments and candidates around the world. Since then she has enjoyed a hugely successful career placing many of the sector’s most revered leaders. Alongside work, she is currently writing her first period novel telling the story of a family, over a number of generations, spanning 150 years - an ambition that she has held for some time.
1. What was your biggest career break?
Buying and floating my first company - something which would have been a preposterous idea when I was a young girl.
2. Have you had a notable mentor – and if so what was it about them that was so inspiring?
My husband John for the faith he showed in me when there was little reason for it and the encouragement he gave me.
3. What one piece of advice would you give to the 20-year-old you?
Be confident. Do the right thing and fear nothing.
4. What qualities to do you look for in the people you work with?
Integrity, common sense, energy, courage and kindness.
5. Who do you admire and why?
Margaret Thatcher - not for her politics, but because she stood by her principles and never looked over her shoulder in fear of what people might say or write about her.
6. What does the future of your industry look like?
The communications industry is going through enormous transition and the companies that will survive are those brave enough to recognise the huge changes that are taking place and adapt their businesses with agility.
7. If you hadn’t chosen you current career, what would you have done instead?
I would like to have gone to the bar - which was my father's greatest wish.
8. What is your biggest extravagance?
Porsches
9. Who would you invite to your dream dinner party and why? (you can invite three people – they must be alive)
Sir Martin Sorrell - because there are a few questions I would like to ask him about our industry
J K Rowling - as I write my first novel, I would like to know what it feels like to be one of the most lauded writers of our time.
Aung San Suu Kyi - a universal symbol of courage and peaceful resistance who constantly demonstrates dignity and courage.
10. What do you do to relax away from work?
Play poker.
11. If you could change one thing about Britain today, what would it be?
We need to give our children, for whom further education or university is not an option, a real chance to develop their talents. This means a scheme whereby they join a company and continue receiving benefits for a short period of time while being given the opportunity to grow in confidence. Too many young people come out of school feeling they have little worth, value or future in the workplace.
12. What would your last meal be? (please choose a starter, a main course and a pudding)
Prawn cocktail
Baked beans on toast with two fried eggs
Raspberries and cream
