IFSDG: How long have you worked in
FDM
Group?
Norman: 18 Months
IFSDG: How many people work at FDM
Group?
Norman: 3,000
IFSDG: What is the vision for FDM Group in
Glasgow?
Norman: To better our recent growth in
Scotland and to keep providing excellent local support to our
clients. To keep getting our graduates and Ex - Forces
personnel their first start in the IT industry; there's few
better feelings than telling someone they've been placed.
IFSDG: What's a typical day for
you?
Norman: Host a client on a tour of our
new city centre 14,000 Sq ft Academy at 1 West Regent Street.
Work with our Graduates and Ex Forces trainees on their
professional skills. Visit a client or potential client at
their place of business. Help out with running one of our
weekly assessment days.
IFSDG: Why did FDM Group choose to locate in the
IFSD in Glasgow?
Norman: It's a great, vibrant city centre
business location from which we can serve the needs of our Scottish
clients.
IFSDG: Three good things about working in
Glasgow?
Norman: There's a great energy in the
city. The people are funny, friendly and frank. We are
no more than 15 minutes from being out in the beautiful Scottish
countryside .
IFSDG: What is your biggest business achievement
to date?
Norman: With FDM, establishing the FDM Ex
- Forces model in Scotland. We have gone from a standing
start to having over 30 Ex - Forces IT and Business
specialists on client site in full time work with another 20 +
currently in training.
IFSDG: What is the best investment you ever
made?
Norman: On a personal level my first,
handmade, bespoke suit, it made me feel a million
dollars. On a financial level, buying our house which
is now worth 200% more; hard to beat that ROI.
IFSDG: Which businessperson or company do you most
admire and why?
Norman: Bill Gates; he realises the
importance of putting something back into society, with his wealth
that's a huge amount. However, it's all relative, do what you
can to help people, it doesn't have to be a financial
commitment.
IFSDG: What did you want to be when you were a
child?
Norman: England rugby open side
flanker.
IFSDG: What do you do to relax away from the
office?
Norman: I like to read and when the
weather is good enough do it on my patio in the sun with the birds
singing in the trees.
IFSDG: I-Phone or
Android?
Norman: Android
IFSDG: Favourite
band?
Norman: Fleetwood Mac
IFSDG: Favourite
sport?
Norman: Rugby - of course
IFSDG: Favourite
movie?
Norman: Blues Brothers
IFSDG: Sunshine or
snow?
Norman: Sunshine
IFSDG: and finally, what three words sum you
up?
Norman: Happy, caring and funny … I
hope.