FRS Friday: Meet Paul, East Birmingham Regional Director

Every Friday we put a member of our team in the spotlight. Today it's the turn of Paul Lewis, Regional Director of FRS Birmingham. We would like to thank Paul for giving us an unexpected and humorous look at his personal side, quirks and all. We hope you enjoy reading his answers as much as we did!

Q. How did your childhood prepare you for your job today?

My Childhood was strict and I was an only child. I wanted to be in the Armed Forces from the age of 7, so I was focused with what I wanted out of life at an early age.  I remember being told by my father that if I wanted something in life I had to work hard, as it would never be gifted to me by hand.

Q. What's your dream occupation if you weren't doing what you're doing now?

My dream occupation was being in the Armed Forces. If I was not doing Recruitment now I would be back in the Armed Forces. Unfortunately, due to being Medically Discharged after 22 years, I am unable to go back in.  What I'm doing now helps me feel as if I'm giving something back.

Q. Describe your first car and what you loved or hated most about it.

My first car was a Red Nissan Sunny back in 1992. I loved this car as this was my gateway to freedom when I was based in Germany. I remember it was also compact and small.

Q. What are your hidden talents that most people don't know about?

My hidden talent is that I can actually cook and I am really good at it, but don’t ever want to have a career at it.

Q. What one accomplishment are you most proud of?

I have to say, after my accident in playing Rugby and nearly dying from a ruptured spleen, it has taken me almost 7 years to gain fitness again and now I am more focused and more driven than before.  This is because I value my life, family and career.

Q. What embarrassing mistake have you made that has taught you a lesson?

I was on a Military exercise in Canada and was on the back of a 7 Tonne Vehicle. I sat down on the floor against the back of the tail gate and as we drove on we hit a bump. The back tail gate suddenly fell open and I went flying off the back of the vehicle.  Even though this was very dangerous, it was also highly embarrassing and brought much amusement to my army colleagues!

Q. What's the most unusual item in your desk drawer?

I have taken a look in my drawer and I have to say the most unusual item is a dog bowl. No, I don't eat my lunch out of it....but never say never.

Q. What's your favourite sports team and how far will you go to show your support?

Well, after the Rugby World Cup, I am very unsure! No Seriously, I am a Massive Fan of Rugby and the Rugby England Rugby Team.  I would go as far as having the English Rose Tattooed on me (actually this IS happening in November 2015.)

Q.  Share something funny or endearing about your pet.

My Pet is Dotty, the family dog (hence the dog bowl!) Dotty has the look of, "Take me for a walk now" and you just melt in those eyes and give in.

Q. What's your guilty pleasure?

Chivas Regel Whiskey

Q. How do your friends describe you?

Passionate & Caring

Q. Who's your best friend and why?

After being in the Army for over 22 years I have many good friends, but my ultimate 'best friend' is my mate, Andrew West.  We have known each other for well over 20 years and know a lot about each other, right down to disco dancing together in the 90s!

Q. What's on your Bucket List?

1. Aston Martin
2. Speed Boat
3. Jet Ski
4. Holiday Home