Postscript: Penny speed meets…

Being an insatiable socialite, Penny Black is always eager to probe the personalities behind the professional veneer of her industry friends. What better way to squeeze in and share as many intimate revelations as possible than her very own ‘speed meeting’ column? This week, it’s the turn of DLG’s Steve Maddock

What was your first ever job — and were you any good at it? Worked on the family market stall, didn’t last long — I ate all the soft fruit profits

If an MP3 player really could only hold three tunes, what would you select for the ultimate soundtrack to your life? Can’t Stop – Red Hot Chilli Peppers; Paradise – Coldplay; Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol

Who was your top teenage pin-up? Rachel Ward

My colleagues won’t know this about me but… I love to sail but can’t swim

Favourite book of all time? Long Walk to Freedom – Nelson Mandela
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? Be curious

What would be your chosen superpower? Foresight

If you could be Prime Minister for the day, what change would you instigate and why? Having just bought a new house — I’d abolish stamp duty

How would a typical school report about you read? Has ability and can achieve a lot but suffers from a very short attention span

My top tip for climbing the insurance career ladder is… Work hard, make a difference and surround yourself with great people

What’s the most annoying thing people do in your office? Failing to take their turn to fetch the teas

My last supper would comprise… A hot chilli

Who has been the most influential person in your life to date? My parents

When I’m not working I like to… Spend time with my girls and pay homage at the City Ground

Last film you saw? The Iron Lady

If I wasn’t working in insurance I would probably be… A doctor
Name your five ideal dinner party guests (dead or alive) noting what they bring to the party Brian Clough – legend; Margaret Thatcher – leader of great conviction; Stephen Fry – for his intellect; Jamie Oliver – for the food; Eddie Izzard – for the comedy value

Marmite: food of the gods or work of the devil? Food of the gods

Career high point to date? My current position of course!
What do you say when strangers at a social gathering ask what you do for a living? (Be honest now) I work in insurance – we should be proud of our profession

If you could travel back in time, where would you go? 1979, Olympic Stadium, Munich or 1980, Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid

Finish this sentence: Insurance is a great industry to work in because… It’s always challenging, constantly evolving, varied and rewarding

Would you like to be probed by Penny on one of her speed meets? Get in touch via lynn.rouse@incisivemedia.com