About Mark Fermor
I grew up in Kent, in a family where hard work and business were just part of everyday life. My dad worked two jobs to make sure we could have holidays. My mum was an estate agent, always talking about the deals she was doing, often while helping my nan in her dry cleaners, which she ran for over 60 years. My grandad had his own barbers for just as long, so from a young age I was around customers, money and conversations. I was always active, which led me into gymnastics for 15 years, representing Great Britain and learning discipline, resilience and how to handle pressure. My career has since taken me from media and events into technology and cybersecurity, where I co-founded Firevault.
Q&As
Describe yourself in three words?
Direct, curious, loyal.
What was your first job?
My first paid job was at 13 doing paper rounds. Most mornings my legs barely worked, having done four hours of gymnastics training the night before. Thankfully, I got quite good at negotiating with my parents, who often ended up being my chauffeurs.
What frustrates you?
When words don’t match actions. Also, when my spaniel decides to ‘sing’…and being given a Guinness that tastes completely wrong.
How do you spend your leisure time?
I love spending time with my wife, friends and family. Usually it’s watching sport – rugby, football or Formula 1 – or sitting down for a really good meal with a decent glass of red wine.
What is your go-to comfort food?
Steak and chips.
What temptation can’t you resist?
Sushi.
Where are you happiest?
On holiday in the Caribbean with my wife.
What is your number one karaoke song?
I stay well away from karaoke as I’m awful, but my wife is brilliant, especially with ‘Zombie’ and ‘Hotel California’.
At school, what were you good at?
IT, PE and art.
What would be your plan B as a career?
I’d go back into media and advertising. I’ve always enjoyed meeting people, selling and travelling.
Which one luxury could you not live without?
Holidays.
Which three people, dead or alive, would you invite as dinner guests?
Rick Mayall, Jennifer Lawrence and Steve Jobs.
If you could time-travel, where would you go and why?
To 1966, to watch England win the World Cup, so I can say I’ve seen it happen in my lifetime.
How many attempts before you passed your driving test?
Two.
