ALEX WILLIAMS AND KIERAN PORTER
Did you grow up in the North East or did you decide to relocate here in later life? Kieran: I’m a Shropshire lad, I think that makes me a Salopian. Born in Shrewsbury but I think since then, I’ve become a bit of a nomad. I moved to Leeds at 19 and spent seven years there before moving to the North East. My partner is from Blyth and eventually she wanted to move home and so the conversation was… ‘I’m going, do you want to come too?’
What do you think it means to be a businessperson in the North East of England? Alex: The North East is such a tight knit market, you find that everyone knows everyone but also, everyone is, most of the time, willing to help. To be a business person here, it allows such great opportunity to lead from the front and allow the sector we want to build in to grow.
What is your favourite aspect of life in the North East? Alex: I think it’s great that you can be in the city centre and then drive just 15 minutes and you’re at the coast or countryside! During the original lockdown, a lot of my exercise time was running along the coast and I loved it.
Do you have a favourite hotspot for a business meeting? For some reason, it used to be Motel One but now I guess its changed. Pre covid, it was usually Blakes as you could do ‘two birds one stone’ and eat breakfast at the same time. Now, it’s from the comfort of the computer screen either at home or in the office.
Where do you like to eat out in the region? Alex: I like my food, so does Kieran of course. I’m a huge fan of Sunday Roast from a good country pub but also, you wouldn’t find me saying no to eating (most nights) at somewhere like Porter House for a steak, Sohe, Haveli. Kieran: The North East has so many different options for food but there are so many great country pubs in the countryside and in the city, some great options for good Tapas.
Where do you like to unwind within the North East?
Alex: At the beginning of lockdown, I invested in two things: a bike and a golf membership! Getting out on both the bike and the course allowed me to really relax away form the work environment to be with my thoughts. Often, when the mind is clear from the daily stressors, it can free up the ability to rationalise.
Are the people really friendlier?
Kieran: I have to be careful on this one…but yes, I’m sure they are. Although I think it’s sometimes maybe that Geordies are just chattier. It’s a little similar to the town I come from in the fact that the people that live here are often from smaller communities and have a higher sense of togetherness rather than the ‘big city’ mentality.
What do you think is the best view in the North East?
Kieran: Have you ever been to Thrunton woods and stood close to the top, that’s pretty spectacular. Alex: If you’re on the beach at Bamburgh Castle looking up at it from a distance, there is something quite surreal about its size and surroundings. Do you think living and working in the North East offers the same opportunities as elsewhere in the UK? Kieran: The North East whilst geographically vast, is actually made up of quite condensed areas which depending on your given career path, can provide its own challenges. However, in the short time I’ve lived here, I’ve seen so many businesses adapt and change to suit the environment. Now, in other areas which are more densely populated, perhaps you would think there is more opportunity because people wouldn’t have to travel as far to take it. People in the North East are grafters and work for reward!
Have you had any experience of working elsewhere and how did it compare?
Kieran: I lived in Leeds for several years and absolutely loved it. My journey in recruitment started there with a sector leader and they moulded me to become the recruiter or person in business that I am today and so, it holds a special place with me. My working life now and then are completely different so I’m not sure they’re comparable. standby.group
