What was the biggest business decision you have made? Ending the hugely successful Glens Hutchison Robertson and Stepek advertising campaigns after 20 great years. It was a big strategic change for the business and high risk.
Awards – ego trips for the bosses or are they good for companies? They can be a distraction from what matters.
Corporate entertainment – a waste of money or can it bring in business? Just another distraction in my opinion.
Favourite and least favourite part of your job? I love working with people who share the same values and goals. I dislike detail and admin so I work with great people who enjoy these.
If money was no object what would you do/buy? I'd do the same work. My Polish grandmother died of starvation during WWII and it is shameful that this still happens, so my money would go towards helping people in countries where hunger and starvation is still an everyday occurrence.
What makes a good manager? Attention to detail and empathy for the team as human beings.
Most amazing thing that's happened to you? Every day is amazing if your eyes are open. But watching the clouds lift and the sun rise at dawn on Macchu Picchu in Peru after walking three days in the Andes was majestic.
Best car ever driven? The best car is a punctual train – much better for the environment!
Why are you good at what you do? I spent a long time finding out what I love doing. I only do work I love with folk who share common values and vision.
What will an SNP administration do for the Scottish economy? Messrs Salmond, Swinney and Mather all have real business life experience which augurs well, but they aren't facing the hard climate change challenges yet. Economic growth is fool's gold if we don't make the environment our top priority.
• Martin Stepek is chief executive of the Scottish Family Business Association and former head of electrical chain J Stepek.
The full article contains 338 words and appears in The Scotsman newspaper.
