Each week, we ask small businesses key questions. Here we speak to Victoria Munro, who runs Aberdeen-based Aspire Subsea.
Q. How and why did you start in business?
A. I have worked in the oil and gas sector for the past 17 years and had the pleasure of working with some very talented people. While working for a main operator, I saw
an opportunity to help others by providing permits and consents, regulatory support for new and brownfield developments in the North Sea. I then sourced experienced people who were all actively working in the oil and gas industry and built a highly skilled team which can support operators throughout this process.
Q. How did you get to where you are today?
A. By taking some risks, working hard and attaining skills and knowledge in the oil and gas legal framework.
Q. Who helped you?
A. My work ethic came from my wonderful parents who were both hardworking. I have also worked with some great colleagues who recommended my services to other oil and gas operators, and I have built up good working relationships with the government authorities that I am in regular contact with. A great source of help and advice has also come from the Federation of Small Businesses, of which I am proud to be a member.
Q. What has been your biggest mistake?
A. I have not been very successful at marketing my company and spreading the word of all the services we can provide, but I’m working hard to rectify that.
Q. What is your greatest achievement?
A. Setting up my own company and seeing it develop.
Q. If you were in power in government, what would you change?
A. I would like to see the more vulnerable people in society, like the elderly and children with special needs, have the appropriate care and support they deserve.
Q. What do you still hope to achieve?
A. I would like to develop my company so that I can gain more clients. I am also keen to employ people and provide training, so we can continue to develop and grow the expertise within the oil and gas industry.
Q. What do you do to relax?
A. I like to listen to music and go for long walks. I also like to go to the theatre and am looking forward to seeing the new Tina Turner musical.
Q. What are you currently reading, listening to or glued to on the TV?
A. I have started watching Dr Foster and I do love comedy, like Still Game.
Q. What do you waste your money on?
A. I do love a bit of retail therapy, and clothes and shoes are my weakness.
Q. How would your friends describe you?
A. Generous, wise and witty.
Q. What would your enemies say about you?
A. I hope I don’t have any – I always try to treat people with respect.
Q. What do you drive and dream of driving?
A. I currently drive an Audi A5 and would like to be driving an Audi R8.
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