in Profiles by Kate Bassett. Permalink.
Andy Pilley, founder of gas and electricity firm BES, on chairing a football team, Duncan Bannatyne and Glee.
Name: Andy Pilley
Age: 41
Company: BES. We're an independent supplier of gas and electricity, with 250 employees based at the headoffice in Fleetwood, Lancashire.
Turnover: £30m
First job: My first proper job was in telesales. I know a lot of people hate it but I really enjoyed it. It was a good grounding for me starting BES because it meant dealing directly with customers. I enjoyed chasing sales and securing a good deal.
Dream job: I’m chairman of Fleetwood Town FC. At the moment we are in the Blue Square Bet Premier but my dream would be to become a football league chairman. We only need one more promotion to get into League Two.
Car: I drive an Aston Martin.
Economy, business or first class: If possible I will go first class. It’s good to enjoy some luxury after my hard work over the years.
Most extravagant purchase: Fleetwood Town FC.
Most-played song on your iPod: My daughter is a big Glee fan so I’ll say Don’t Stop Believing.
Best business book: Duncan Bannatyne’s autobiography. It’s a great rags to riches tale.
Worst business moment: At the time Enron filed for bankruptcy in 2001, I was working for a creditor energy company. I ended up losing my job, which was a terrible moment for me.
Proudest business moment: Hopefully this is yet to come. However, getting Ofgem licences to supply gas and electricity was a particular highlight.
Business mentor: I would have to say my sister Michelle. She is a fellow director of BES and makes my ideas happen.
Next big thing: If I knew that I wouldn’t tell anyone!