Yorkshire Christmas catch-up: Twisted Automotive’s Alex Duckett

As Christmas is only weeks away, and the businesspeople of Yorkshire are preparing to hang up their stockings, Bdaily is continuing its December interview series with Alex Duckett, operations director at Twisted Automotive.

As you already know, we at Bdaily love to bring our readers closer to the stories we write. So this month, we’re asking the questions we don’t usually get a chance to ask - giving you the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the businesses you often read about.

Based in Thirsk, Twisted specialises in the performance and luxury of the Land Rover Defender.

Alex’s Business

What were the highlights for your business in 2015?

Undoubtedly being fortunate enough to secure a large order of Defenders before they go out of production. We will be one of the few sources of new vehicles in the country. It was also hugely satisfying to see our export business grow, and know all the hard work that goes into each vehicle is appreciated in countries around the globe.

Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently this year?

I wouldn’t necessarily have done anything different, but will certainly use lessons learnt for the year ahead. We have invested in bringing new talent into our business in the last 12 months, which has had real impact. Looking back, we would have seen the benefits sooner had we pulled forward our recruitment plans.

What’s in store for Twisted in 2016?

It could not be a more exciting time for Twisted. We are launching some incredible new products, which we have been working on this year, and hopefully our customers will share this excitement.

Your favourites

Have any other Yorkshire companies caught your eye this year? if so - why?

I would have to say The Kerfoot Group. A Yorkshire business started 35 years ago, and sold to a company that first supplied it. A true success story.

When business life gets on top of you, what do you do to destress?

Turn off my phone and go fly fishing but this doesn’t happen often. It is a real treat to be able to focus entirely on something you love doing and put aside work for a few hours.

How has been your favourite social media personality this year? Any accounts stood out for you?

I dare not tell you for embarrassment, but I will generously say a TV personality who has very varied content!

The what ifs

If you could do any job in the world what would it be?

Jazz singer

If you could go back in time, which piece of advice would you give your younger self?

Trust your gut feeling!

What would be the perfect Christmas gift for you?

A Twisted V8 90 - isn’t that what everyone wants?

Thank you for your time Alex, Merry Christmas for the Bdaily team!

To feature in our Yorkshire Christmas catch-up series, contact Nick at nick.hill@bdaily.co.uk.