21) Monday 9 Sept 2013 – The New Job 1
"So, Craig, what do you think?"
Neville had spent most of the late morning and early afternoon explaining his vision for the Ashworth company to his latest employee.
"Uhh, I think you're spot on the money with most of what you're talking about. The thing today is to invest in a number of relatively small profit companies. That way you have a greater turn-over rather than trying to maximise your profit in a minimum number of ventures." Craig smiled at his new boss. "For instant, the college catering business. It may not be the most profitable business at the moment, but basically I think it will turn out to be the most stable one! After all, students have to eat! I should know!"
Neville laughed at the joke. "Yeah, I know. The money Rhys would spend on food and drink while at college would be enough to pay most of the catering staff as it is!" He laughed at his own joke. "Well, all jokes aside, I think you're right. I've been trying to tell Suzanne. She wants to get involved with high street brands, but I think that's just too risky."
Craig nodded. "I think you're right! However, your wife's right, as well! It would be fun to be a part of the high street business, but just look at the Icelandic companies a few years ago. They entered the game far too early. I think you should rather build up your portfolio and be a relatively quiet, but a stable businessman for a few years before you up your game."
"You mean, I shouldn't enter the big boys' game just yet!" Neville stated, not asking Craig for an answer.
"That's your words!" Craig smiled a bit. "But whichever way you put it, that's how I see it. You have to have real cash if you want to take those risks!"
"I agree! You know, Craig, you and I, we're gonna get along really well!" Neville patted Craig's left arm firmly. "So, where to head for the time being?"
"It's a bit too early for me to make any firm plans. After all, it's only my first day," Craig said apologetically, before continuing, "however, as I stated in the business plan I sent you from Dublin, I think you should focus on investing in the type of businesses you already know. For instance, I think the University of Liverpool is looking for someone to take over their catering businesses. That's where we should be looking at the moment!"
"You're right. Let's look into those figures!" Neville agreed. "Still, I was thinking about closer to home, any possibilities you see around here?"
"Well, there is the club, The Loft!" Craig sighed. "I know you've already decided against it, but Katy is looking for an investor," he paused, seeing the look on his boss's face, "... I know she originally said no, but that was a year ago, when she'd just returned to take over. Now, she knows how difficult the business is. And yes, before I continue, I know how strange it will be to compete with yourself! That's why I would separate the businesses."
"What? Do you mean, run them totally separate from each other?" Neville was incredulous.
"Yes, exactly!" Craig stated flatly. "That's the only way to do it properly. You can't be showing favourism either way. Both businesses, if you choose to take over Katy's club, that is, have to be totally independent of the other one."
"I see your point!" Neville nodded at Craig. "And you want me to ask John Paul to run the club?" he added slyly.