Favourite North-East building and why?

The Spanish City – I associate this with my childhood and the fantastic North-East coastline where I grew up. Nothing says home like seeing the Spanish City Dome in the distance.

What was your first job and how much did you get paid?

Shelf stacker – at Morrisons when I was studying for A-levels. I was paid £2.01 an hour.

Worst job you’ve had?

Shelf stacker at Morrisons – I learned a lot from my supervisors at Morrisons about how not to be a leader.

What would you cook for me if I came around for dinner?

I’m a terrible cook, but my signature dish (the only one I can make) is chicken wrapped in parma ham, stuffed with cheese, with mashed potato. I’m more of a functional eater, due to being a powerlifter and having to cram calories.

What would your superpower be?

I like to think I already have super strength, so I think I’d go for invisibility.

Name the people, dead or alive, who would be at your perfect dinner party.

My grandad – he died when I was very young, Richard Branson, Susan Errington (our deputy principal) and George R.R.Martin.

Most expensive thing you’ve bought – other than car or house – and how much?

My wife and three boys do most of the spending in my house, so probably either a mulberry handbag, or a pair of ice hockey skates for the kids.

Best person to follow on Twitter and why?

I like Elon Musk, he can be a bit controversial at times, but he has a great work ethos.

Favourite book?

Game of Thrones.

When did you last cry and why?

I’m a real family man and a big softy at heart, so anything involving my three boys is likely to bring a tear to my eye.

Greatest achievement?

It may sound slightly sad, but getting the principal and chief executive role at Derwentside College.

What’s the best piece of advice in business you’ve ever been given?

Listen more, talk less.

Favourite animal and why.

I’m not a big animal lover, but if I had to choose, I’d probably say an eagle. They’re strong, powerful and graceful.

Most famous person on your mobile phone.

I don’t really know anyone massively famous, but I have met a few high profile ice hockey players over the years through my kids playing the sport.

Last band you saw live?

Bryan Adams at the Metro Radio Arena. He was amazing.

Perfect night in.

Kids in bed before 7pm, glass of prosecco and Game of Thrones on the television.

In another life I would be...

An Olympian, or professional athlete.

Who would play you in a film of your life?

Chris Pratt. A nice mix of humour and smouldering good looks (in my dreams).

What irritates you?

Lateness.

What’s your secret talent?

Lifting heavy weights. My personal best lifts total 665kg across the deadlift, squat and bench press.