Early bird or night owl?
Definitely an early bird, as it’s when I feel that my thinking is clearest and I tend to work best – I fear that my night owl days are definitely behind me.owl.
One routine you swear by?
Never to let my inbox get to more than around 150 emails that need attention or a response, otherwise it becomes overwhelming.
Can’t travel without…?
A good book – travelling feels like one of the rare times these days when I actually get through a book.
Who or what has influenced you most in your career?
Three former London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) colleagues from earlier in my career: Sue Mallet (Director of Planning), Sir Clive Gilliinson (former Managing Director), and Moira Bennett (former Development Director). I learned a huge amount from all of them – Sue gave me a solid grounding in orchestral and concert management; Clive was a visionary who made LSO Live and LSO St Luke’s happen during my time; and Moira taught me so much about communication and engagement with donors and supporters.
Favourite city to perform in and why?
I’d have to say New York, I worked there with the LSO on tour many times and I have good friends who live in the region. I’m not sure I could live there but it’s always exciting to visit, and a few years ago I was lucky enough to sing in the Verdi Requiem with the LSO and London Symphony Chorus at the Lincoln Center.
Guilty pleasure/indulgence?
RuPaul’s Drag Race, which I have followed since its early days – I’m up to speed on the USA, UK, Canadian and Spanish franchises, although I can’t keep up with all the other Drag Race series – it’s starting to feel like a full-time job trying to watch them all!
Simon Wales is the Chief Executive of Bristol Beacon. bristolbeacon.org
