About Jo Day
Some readers may recall my feature in Suffolk Director magazine in 2023, titled ‘Learning how to run a business the hard way’, which reflected on a pivotal moment in 2009 when, at just 24 years old, I was tasked with closing my father’s family business. That early challenge proved to be the greatest catalyst for my personal and professional development. Sixteen years later, with all that experience, growth and resilience behind me, I lead two thriving businesses over 150 miles apart, supported by a fantastic team. I’m passionate about hard work, perseverance and staying true to your ambitions, believing firmly that success is something you earn.
Q&As
Describe yourself in three words?
Impulsive, committed and happy.
What was your first job?
Around 20 years ago, I would often accompany my father, who owned a promotional merchandise business, on cold-calling days. He would park on an industrial estate, hand me a stack of catalogues and send me off to knock on doors while he listened to the radio or read the paper. My reward was lunch at Sainsbury’s café – but only after completing all my visits! While I disliked it at the time, those early lessons in resilience and salesmanship set the foundation for the career I have today.
What frustrates you?
When I can’t ‘fix’ things straightaway.
How do you spend your leisure time?
Pitch side on a Saturday morning watching my boys play football, as caddy for my youngest playing golf and in the gym at every opportunity – that pretty much sums up my leisure time! Not forgetting any opportunity to go ‘out out’ with the girls.
What is your go-to comfort food?
Chocolate!
What temptation can’t you resist?
When someone in my circles asks: “shall we book a holiday?” – I just can’t resist.
Where are you happiest?
Poolside with a cocktail.
What is your number one karaoke song?
I am more of a ‘mover and shaker’ than a singer.
At school, what were you good at?
All sport! 100m sprint was my race, and I represented Suffolk. Fun fact, I also captained the England ladies cricket team touring Australia when I was 19.
What would be your plan B as a career?
I love my job so much that a plan B has never actually been thought of.
Which one luxury could you not live without?
I suppose a mobile phone could be considered a luxury – and in many ways, it should be! The real question is: how do we define ‘luxury’ these days? The line between necessity and indulgence seems increasingly blurred.
Which three people dead or alive would you invite as dinner guests?
I am not interested in people with ‘celebrity’ status. I would break the rules and simply ask for my husband and three children.
If you could time travel, where would you go and why?
I would love to travel back to a time before social media; to a world without constant connectivity. I’d choose this era so my children could experience the kind of childhood we had – one filled with real-world adventures, simpler connections and a life without the influence of the internet.
How many attempts before you passed your driving test?
Passed first time!
