'10 In 10' Jake Wilde Facilities Manager Towngate PLC

In this new and exclusive feature for The Yorkshire Times, we put a regional business professional in the hot seat and give them 10 minutes to answer our 10 burning questions. Here, we hear from facilities manager, Jake Wilde of Brighouse-based Towngate PLC…

What does a typical working day for you involve?

Things can change by the minute in my role, but I’m usually arranging service contracts and keeping on top of the planned maintenance of sites. While getting on with this, it’s important that I’m also reactive – and available to assist our tenants when needed.

What makes your company special?

The first thing I noticed about the team at Towngate, is that they always go above and beyond – not just for our tenants, but also for each other.
What really stands out is the time and care given to each client. We want to ensure our industrial sites are at their best – and do all we can to retain our current occupancy by treating each company individually and accommodating their particular needs. This ethos has allowed us to build up some great working relationships.

Do you have any business rules that you swear by?

I listen and take notes. You can’t really go wrong if you make sure you have the full picture to hand.

Do you dress up or down for work?

I dress up. I have always been told that you only get one chance to make a great first impression – you never know when you may cross paths with that person again. And I believe if you look smart, you will feel confident.

What piece of advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?

To not have any regrets. I would simply say: “Keep going and enjoy learning from others.”

What’s your favourite Yorkshire venue for an event or team away day?

I would automatically say Elland Road – but after our recent trip to the races at Wetherby, this venue too has now become one of my favourites.

How do you prefer to travel for business?

Flying, ideally!

What’s your favourite place in Yorkshire to relax?

At home in my garden with my wife and daughters – and a lit barbecue.

Where is your favourite place to eat in Yorkshire, and what dish do you recommend?

It has to be Dos Amigos on Kirkstall Road. It’s a small and cosy tapas restaurant. The food is amazing – the calamari and chicken and chorizo dishes are a must.

What do you miss most about Yorkshire when you are away?

My family, first and foremost.