What is your job title and main responsibilities?

I am in charge of the BBC’s biggest local radio station outside of London and run outputs across radio, online and social media platforms and work closely with television colleagues. BBC WM provides local news and information for Birmingham and the Black Country.

Where did you begin your broadcast career?

My first broadcasting job was at a commercial radio station in Ipswich, known then as Radio Orwell

What made you want to work in radio?

I have always been passionate about radio and a sport and news fanatic. Initially my ambition was to be a sports commentator, a job that I did during the early part of my career.

Where do you see the radio industry in ten years?

It is exciting times as people can access information and entertainment in so many different ways. Rather than seeing that as a threat I find it exciting as it gives broadcasters the chance to get their content out to more people and faster.

What makes a good interview?

Good research and an interviewer who listens to his/her guest. The best interviews have their own lives and develop in the same way that a conversation off air does. Done this way and done well compelling stories can be revealed

What has been your favourite interview and why?

That’s a really tough question. As a new journalist an exclusive interview that I secured with the brother of Fred West was a highlight as it revealed much about the murderer and he hadn’t agreed to talk to anyone else at that time.

Thinking about your radio career, what are you most proud of?

I am really proud of how my team has embraced change and adapted to new technologies and to working across different platforms. Working for the BBC in Nepal I launched new programming, the first political debate programme in that country, and within six months it became market leader. That was an achievement I’m proud of.

If you weren’t working in radio, what do you think you would be doing?

Working with people and hopefully leading teams. Perhaps coaching as I coach my local rugby team at weekends and we won our league last year. To do that full time, and to get paid for it would be fun