Janet Simpson

Name: Janet Simpson
Position: Proprietor
Company: Gibbon Bridge Hotel & Restaurant

What did you want to be when growing up?
A star!

What was your first wage packet and how did you spend it?
£12 and 10 shillings at the age of 19. I probably spent most of it on petrol for my dad’s car. There would also have been 10 shillings to get into the weekly dance and 10 shillings for my supper.

What does your day-to-day work involve?
My day always starts with cooking breakfast for our guests. I like to be able to chat to them and ensure that they are enjoying their stay. The day then continues with the running of the hotel and when you own a 30 bedroomed hotel this can mean all sorts of things! A typical day can see me in the kitchen discussing menus and produce with Gary the chef, organising staff rotas and overseeing service to meeting potential clients to discuss and advise on events. Basically, anything and everything that goes on with the day-to-day running of a four-star hotel.

How do you unwind?
I unwind by going out in my vintage Derby Bentley. I have always been a car enthusiast and have enjoyed driving since I was 10, when I used to help on the farm on the tractor. I still enjoy mowing and most weeks in the summer can be found cutting the grass!

Describe your dream, no expense spared day out:
Every day is a dream! I love my life and nothing gives me greater pleasure and satisfaction than meeting new people and ensuring that our customers are happy and have enjoyed their Gibbon Bridge experience.

Who is your all time hero?
I think the Queen is amazing but Phillip Howard and Anton Mosiman are both heroes of mine. Their food is superb and having had the privilege of seeing how they work I aspire to emulate their achievements and work ethics.

What is your favourite piece of advice?
There is no order without discipline and no discipline without control. It is important to be happy and treat everyone with respect.