Yorkshire festive focus: Kirk Akdemir, AA Global Language Services

As Christmas is only weeks away, and the businesspeople of Yorkshire are preparing to hang up their stockings, Bdaily is catching up with the region’s business leaders to reflect on the highlights of 2016 and how they plan on spending the holiday period.

For the series’ next instalment, we are speaking with Kirk Akdemir, CEO of Worcester- and Hull-based AA Global Language Services Ltd.

What were the three biggest highlights for your business in 2016?

Winning the biggest contract in the history of AA Global with a major purchasing organisation. Being told by that client that we are in the top six public sector suppliers of translation and interpreting services in the UK. Successfully managing yet another major international conference for Toyota.

What are your business’ goals going into 2017?

Continuing with our expansion and creating more employment opportunities in our region

Anything you/your business would have done differently over the past year?

I don’t think I’d want to change anything as we have a great team of people doing a fantastic job. I would just like more hours in the day if it were possible!

Why do you think Yorkshire is a great place to do business?

People make places – Yorkshire has the best people to do business with, to work alongside and to socialise with. That’s particularly true of Hull, where our office sits in the heart of the cultural and festival zone.

Any other company/companies in the region stand out for you?

I couldn’t pick out one individual business as we have found so many in this region since we moved here five years ago.

What does Yorkshire want to see happen in the future/next year?

Maybe a cliché but more support from central government would be great, particularly as we work to develop the Northern Powerhouse.

What individual goals did you achieve personally/professionally in 2016?

Making more time for family and having a go at learning to play the accordion.

How do you unwind after a stressful day at work?

A quick 20 minutes on the accordion before watching a movie with my other half Carol and a glass of red.

What would be the perfect Christmas gift for you?

A day in a warm place without my mobile.