The Moment talks to… Nick Hewer

…carve a niche for yourself these days, yet in another you’ve really got to stand above the competition if you want to get noticed. And it’s fascinating to see what lengths people will go to in order to do that.’

Those lengths are never more apparent than on shows like The Apprentice and Dragons’ Den.

‘It’s really not easy. These are pressured situations with camera crews surveying your every move. It can take time to get used to the constant attention, and candidates are being asked to complete physically and mentally demanding tasks at the same time. Not easy!’ he sympathises.

But, Nick insists, the shows carry a very positive message.

‘If we’ve made a small impact on the psyche of those out there, then that’s a fantastic legacy to take forward’

‘They have given people belief; real belief. And belief in business is absolutely everything. It’s the difference between running with an idea and parking it. I think there are several other factors involved in the UK increasingly becoming a hub for optimistic, positive business people, but if we’ve made a small impact on the psyche of those out there, then that’s a fantastic legacy to take forward. And what I love is the fantastical following these shows have. We’re connecting with the broadest range of potential millionaires – what is there to stop any of us from going for it?’

Hewer has become much more than just a public aide to Sugar. He now pops up regularly
on panel shows including a stand-out hilarious appearance on BBC’s Would I Lie To You?, and
of course has his very own gig as the host of Channel 4’s Countdown, proving that behind his
keen business mind lies equally sharp wit.

The Swindon-born presenter readily admits that he’s happy on his side of the boardroom table. ‘Could I have been an apprentice at the age of 25? Not a chance! I would have been terrified. They are putting all their cards on the table, so to speak, early in their careers, and it’s a tough process to go through.’

Retirement may continue to beckon but Hewer still has much to give. ‘It has been a curious way to bring my career to a close. Arguably I’m busier and more successful now than at any time in the past when I was actually trying to be busy and successful!’