The Questionnaire – Mark Ringer

Mark is the founder and organiser of the Willow Festival – a free, family orientated music festival that returns to Peterborough in July, supported by Peterborough City Council

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB?

I was employed by a local musical instrument retailer as a demonstrator salesperson. The business was based in the south end of the town and stocked keyboards, guitars & percussion mainly. It was a good introduction to the music industry and because the business undertook many external sales promotions at venues all across the region, it gave me grounding in setting up and running events. That was back in 1978, when you could still drive down Bridge St and many small independent retail shops could survive in the city centre…

WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU AND WHY?

I’ve been inspired by many and varied people over time, but with regard to business, Houdini would be a strong contender.

ARE YOU WHERE YOU EXPECTED TO BE WHEN FIRST SETTING OUT?

I wished to work within the music industry and have always done so. I’ve probably achieved more than I could have imagined when I was in my teens, but there are always new projects.

DO YOU LIKE TO PLAN, OR TO IMPROVISE?

I tend to understand the minutiae of a project instinctively, so my plans are made for those around me who need them. If I can’t understand how I can bring a project to fruition at first hearing, then it’s unlikely that I would pursue it.

IF YOU WEREN’T IN THIS BUSINESS, WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING?

Working in the motorsports industry as a marketing executive.

HOW TIDY IS YOUR DESK?

The one at home is a jumble, but usually I’m organised and tidy. The desk at my office is always clear.

IF YOU COULD GO BACK AND DO ONE THING DIFFERENTLY, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

I would have had the courage of my convictions much earlier in life, probably in my teens, rather than from my 30’s onwards.

IF YOU MADE AN UNEXPECTEDLY LARGE AMOUNT OF MONEY, WHAT WOULD YOU USE IT FOR?

I would build a world class motorsports theme park. Similar to Ferrari World, but much larger and not so narrowly focused. Something that would embrace car and motor culture across the board. The Disneyland for motor enthusiasts.

WHAT’S THE BEST BIT OF BUSINESS ADVICE YOU EVER HAD?

Don’t get involved in a business that’s underfunded.

WHAT ONE PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE STARTING OUT NOW?

It’s as easy to do something you really want to do, as it is to do something you don’t. Don’t make money your only goal and don’t allow those without vision to stand in your way.

WHAT’S YOUR ULTIMATE AMBITION?

To enjoy my family and to simultaneously do as I please.

WHAT ITEM WOULD YOU TAKE WITH YOU TO A DESERT ISLAND?

An astral telescope.

visit https://www.thewillowfestival.org.uk for more information