Hilary Devey

Entrepreneur Hilary Devey, CBE is the founder, chief executive and chairman of Pall-Ex, the palletised freight company, one of the UK's leading logistics suppliers. She was a 'Dragon' on Dragons' Den from 2011 to 2013.

1. What was your biggest career break?

Managing to get sacked from my first job in three hours, which made me re-evaluate my priorities. It made me want to run my own business, which in the course of time I did, and it made me focus on my career.

2. Have you had a notable mentor – and if so what was it about them that was so inspiring?

John Harvey CBE, the British entrepreneur and logistician whose seminal contribution was to lead the intercontinental logistics service provider Tibbett & Britten Group. His ability to connect with all layers of society and his ability to listen makes him very inspiring.

3. What one piece of advice would you give to the 20-year-old you?

Don’t let your heart rule your head: choosing the right partner in life is the most momentous business decision you will ever make.

4. What qualities to do you look for in new recruits?

Tenacity, self-sacrifice, dedication; they must be team players, and have the ability to debate.

5. Who do you admire in business and why?

Lord Sugar because he has succeeded in the face of adversity and started with nothing. I also admire the way he says very little whilst conveying a lot.

6. What does the future of your industry look like?

We are suffering from skill shortages, fuel increases, and increasing EU regulation. If we can overcome these hurdles the future looks bright.

7. If you hadn’t built a career in the distribution sector, what would you have been?

I always wanted to be a vet. I love animals. Alternatively, a politician.

8. What is your biggest extravagance?

Nice clothes.

9. Who would you invite to your dream dinner party and why? (you can invite three people – they must be alive)

James Spader, Alan Carr and Boris Johnson.

10. What do you do to relax away from work?

I don’t, I just move office to sunnier climes.

11. If you could change one thing about Britain today, what would it be?

I would partially reverse the draconian smoking ban.