Category Archives: Blog posts
A tribute to my father
My Dad died ten years ago today. As the eldest of his four sons, it fell upon me to give the eulogy at his funeral – the hardest job I have ever done. You are unlikely to have interest in … Continue reading
Why I buy the brand ‘George Galloway’
Don’t get me wrong. I don’t want to meet George Galloway. In fact, given the opportunity, I would rather not. I have a personal rule to avoid meeting celebrities. In general, I have found them more willing to talk to … Continue reading
The Queen – Never complain. Never Explain.
First published 12 March as guest on US ‘Switch and Shift – Future of Leadership‘ series: As you may know, this year, to honour Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee, the rest of the world has generously invited us to host the Olympic Games … Continue reading
Richard Branson – Flexibility is the Key
First published on 27 Feb as a guest on US ‘Switch and Shift – Future of Leadership‘ series: Thirty years ago, I first met Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Records. His reputation was reclusive, perhaps even aloof. People knew about him, … Continue reading
Why can’t companies have ‘social’ AND ‘limited’ liability?
It does get lonely, this blogging business. My career has been in the much more collaborative world of marketing and advertising, where I am used to researching opinion, sharing knowledge, knocking around ideas, listening to other people’s thoughts and making … Continue reading
How banks can save the NHS
In June last year, I posted an insight to solve the NHS problem which, given the cost of the NHS is forecast to increase from £130bn in 2015 to £260bn in 2030, is a big one. At the time, David … Continue reading
Humanity can overcome technology
First posted on Huffington Post on 15 Feb 2012 Two days. Two media channels. Two writers. Alain de Botton is an eminent philosopher who has written ‘How Proust Can Change Your Life’, ‘The Consolations of Philosophy’ and ‘The Pleasures and … Continue reading
Dont make your hobby your job
First published on Brand Republic on 1 February 2012 Yes, yes, yes! At last! The day has arrived. In the long history of the Internet, I can only post this blog on this one day. Yes, today. 1 February 2012. … Continue reading
Form is temporary. Class is permanent.
‘Form is temporary. Class is permanent.’ This saying, heard most often in my life in a cricketing context, came to mind today as I was helping to judge the BMS Seasonal Book Marketing Awards (a much more modest event than … Continue reading
‘Role of Government’ in a capitalist society
I cannot believe our politicians have only just realised that the ‘Role of Government’ in a capitalist society is the most fundamental problem they need to resolve. It shows an extraordinary lack of leadership and vision. I can say this, … Continue reading