Oct 08,2024
Entrepreneur's Corner - October 2024
This month, we have a very special guest in our Entrepreneur’s corner, our very own co-founder, Ben Burnett-Armstrong. Read on to learn more about the behind the scenes of Pall Mall Investments.
Born: 21/10/1966
Homes: Hampshire and Menorca
School: Ampleforth
University: Middlesex (for a short while!)
First job: Working in a tile factory
Cars: Range Rover, Polo
Last Holiday: Seville, Spain – what a city
Favourite book: Count of Montecristo by Alexander Dumas. Amazing story, and also my favourite Cuban cigars are named after it.
Favourite film: Mississippi Burning
Favourite music: George Michael / Bruce Springsteen
Favourite drink: Dry Martini
Favourite watch: Rolex
Favourite gadget: iPhone
Cat or dog: Dogs, of course
Charity: A variety
Q: Could you sum up your company for us in no more than 100 words?
A: We are involved in corporate finance in general terms but essentially operate in the FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) field crossing over into business visas for the UK. As a legacy endorsing body for the innovator visa route, we have been privileged to work with over a 100 companies from around the globe, bringing their expertise and entrepreneurialism to UK Plc. We are strong in support and mentorship and help steer young companies through their early years. All of which is a labour of love!
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received or given?
A: Always invoke the 24 hour rule – give your self 24 hours to ponder and determine key decisions. What looks good now might not be so appealing tomorrow.
Q: What is something you wish you’d always known?
A: Turnover is vanity, profit is sanity AND cash is king.
Q: What does your typical working day look like?
A: Up around 6.30am, tea, then coffee and a smoothie. At my desk by 7.30- 8am. Series of online meetings and calls depending on where I actually am. Working lunch, and then on with calls and meetings. I try at some point in each day to get an intake of fresh air, to try and help give a perspective on everything. Knock off about 6.30pm but continue responding to emails/WhatsApp and WeChat until bed around 10ish.
Don't forget to check in in November for our next guest in the EC! Released every month, giving you an insight into the life of an entrepreneur.