Simon Whittington
Born in Tavistock, Devon. Grew up in Devon and has lived in Surrey and Wiltshire.

What’s your background?
From college, I took the opportunity to travel throughout the US and crewed a yacht in the British Virgin Islands. On returning (having run out of money), my early career stretched from finance through to retail and an e-tail start-up business.  I then trained with and worked for a FTSE100 recruitment business, working with a broad client base in the appointment of senior finance professionals across the M4/M5 corridor. As joint founder of VANA Resourcing, I’m delighted that we have successfully built our business around a strong brand and core values which are the centre of everything we do. 

What’s your biggest non-work achievement?
My children Joseph, Ellie and Darcy. That’s three times now and I still haven’t found out what’s causing it!

Your ideal holiday?
Probably the Med. It’s the people: they’re just so relaxed, friendly and warm. Of course, the climate helps too, not to mention all that great fresh food.

Who has inspired you?
I am inspired by people who have a vision and the tenacity to make that vision real. People who aren’t afraid to run risks. My dad is a great example of this.

Biggest challenge you have faced?
Working with Jo and Debbie (turns, smiles then quickly ducks under the desk).

What are you reading?
The World According to Clarkson by Jeremy Clarkson, hilarious.

What would be your Dragons’ Den idea?
That would be telling!