Yorkshire Times 10 in 10 Nick Houghton

Nick Houghton, Group Managing Director at business and personal insurance services firm, JM Glendinning, which employs over 105 people in eight offices across Yorkshire. North East, Midlands and the North West. Nick is the latest regional business professional in the hot seat as The Yorkshire Times gives him just 10 minutes to answer our 10 burning questions.


What does a typical working day for you involve?

No day is typical other than it always starts with a coffee! I can be with an insurance company one day then in one of our nine Group businesses the next. Most weeks I’ll meet someone that would like to come and work with us. The variety is the pleasure. My favourite working days are those where I’m planning and budgeting with the team – plotting what we’d like to do next.

What makes your company special?

I know it’s a cliché – but the people. Insurance is intangible and our team are the biggest asset on our balance sheet. Whilst we are embracing technology (you can’t ignore it), the real positive influence on our customers’ experience is our team of highly experienced individuals.

Do you have any business rules that you swear by?

“Know what you are good at and be really bloody good at it” and “fail quickly!”

Do you dress up or down for work?

I tend to still wear a suit and tie, but we have a smart casual policy across the Group.

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

Joining the insurance market straight from school is a great career choice (despite what some of your university educated mates might say). Also, ask for help from successful people in the market as early on in your career as you can and understand the value of distribution.

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

It’s great to go clay pigeon shooting at The Coniston Hotel Country Estate and Spa

How do you prefer to travel for business?

The train so I can read and plan with a bacon sandwich and a coffee.

What’s your favourite place in Yorkshire to relax?

A walk round the Royal Horticultural Society’s Harlow Carr gardens in Harrogate followed by lunch in Bettys.

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

Sous le Nez in Leeds – it’s got to be the Char-Grilled Gateau of Waterford Farm Fillet Steak Stuffed with Shallots, Mushrooms & Garlic, Peppercorn Sauce washed down with the house claret.

What do you miss most about Yorkshire when you’re away?

The sunshine, the heat, the glorious blue skies.