Stuart O’Neill was recently interviewed by Famo Celebrity Magazine and below is the Q&A session we had with him.
Introduction – Can you tell us a bit about your yourself?
I’m a 63-year-old married father of 2 daughters. I live in rural Essex near to Stansted Airport although, I’m originally from the North of England. I’m an ex-banker (34 years service) and now I am a part time mature model, Business Advisor. And boxer.
Personal Background – Can you share a little experience about your Upbringing and Early Life?
I was born in Manchester to Irish Parents and, eventually, I ended up with 3 younger male siblings. My childhood was happy – we were not rich, but we always had enough of everything we needed. I wasn’t particularly academic but despite this I managed to pass my 11 plus and go to a local grammar school (Leigh). I couldn’t wait to leave school to get a job and after a couple of months working with my dad on a building site, I successfully applied for a Jon with Williams and Glyn’s bank in Manchester. Childhood over!
Career and Achievements – What do you consider the Highlights of your Career so far?
I worked for 3 banks over my 34 years – bizarrely for the same bank due to mergers. I met lots of great people but also a few that weren’t so great. I worked my way up from a backroom Junior at 17 to the heady heights of being a Regional Director by the time I left in 2013. My highlights included becoming a Branch Manager, Area Manager and Business Development Director when I moved to London. The last 5 years were a hard slog – the people and the customers were still great but, the ‘fun’ had gone out of it.
Challenges and Growth – What are some of the Challenges you’ve faced in your Career, and how did you Overcome them?
Working for a large bank had many advantages – lots of support, training and good money. By the time I left, it felt that the security and the support had disappeared. I did what smart people do – I moved on. I became a contractor and eventually a director of my own business. This wasn’t easy but a combination of my training and experience from banking and the work ethic I learned from my family helped me in my burgeoning careers of Business Coach, Non-Exec Director and part time model/boxer.
Passions and Hobbies – What are your Interests and Hobbies outside of your Career?
I love Manchester United (a season ticket holder until the travelling became too onerous. I am a committed boxer – I only started this in my mid-fifties. I had my first fight when I was 59 at The York Hall in London. I am a fan of single malt whisky and could talk about this all night.
Milestones and Future Goals – What are some of the Milestones you hope to Achieve in the coming years?
I want to support my two daughters through the last years of their education and see them start what I believe will be brilliant careers. I will retire (one day) but right now I enjoy what I do and still have a lot to give. I might slow down a bit!
I have a mad plan about helping small business owners understand how to use AI to build their businesses. I’m, finishing my qualification as we speak.
Life Lessons – What is the most Valuable Lesson you’ve learned in your Life or Career?
An old boss once said “If you make the effort to meet someone, I can’t guarantee they will become a customer. But, if you don’t try, they’re guaranteed not to.”
Advice for Aspiring Artists – What advice would you give to Young Artists looking to make a mark in the industry?
Whatever career you choose, invest some time in a coach or mentor. I have 3 – boxing, business and modelling. They are worth their weight in gold.
Rapid-Fire Round:
*Favourite Book?
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy (John Le Carre)
*Favourite Movie?
The Godfather
*One word to describe yourself?
Friendly
*If had chance of Dinner with historical figure, who would it be?
Johnny Cash
*Favorite Travel Destination?
LA
In the Last, what are your Social Media Platform Links?
Social Media Platforms:
Instagram: @studunmow
Facebook: @buffy1962
