A Leap of Faith: Almost a Decade at Aspen Waite

I joined Aspen Waite in November 2014 after meeting Paul for the very first time a few weeks prior. My old boss, Darren Horne, had suggested we had breakfast together to see if there was an opportunity for me.

Armed with my portfolio and cursing the fact I’d forgotten to wear a belt, I met Paul at the Tudor. Before we’d finished the tea and toast, I’d been offered a job - and to live in the company flat in Bridgwater. Considering I was in the process of ending another tenancy, this could not have come at a better time.

I have never met anyone in my life who would have offered this level of generosity - certainly not to someone they’d just met. Not one for contracts or unnecessary paperwork; we had no formal agreement on the accommodation; so I figured if I didn’t pass my probation, I’d just move in with Darren.

As mutual fans of horse racing; to use a metaphor - I was moving up in class; and Paul was backing an unexposed horse. Something Paul is known for saying is “The answer is yes; what’s the question?” and this was a prime example of that mantra.

I never did have that probation review; but here I am 9 years later; and I like to think the gamble has paid off for both of us.

Paul often attributes the strapline “the Aspen Waite Way” to myself; but the values the phrase embodies are those that Paul has always tried to instil in clients and colleagues alike.

There have been some ups and downs along the way; but Paul has always backed me even when I’ve fallen at the final hurdle; and for that I am very grateful.

I have learned a huge amount about business in my time with Aspen Waite. My role; while lacking structure and organisation; does mean I have had the opportunity to get involved with most aspects of the company at one stage or the other and that is an invaluable experience from a learning and “real world” view.

Certainly eye opening at times – and I have no doubt there is much burden to be carried. I’m pleased to have helped lighten the load along the way.

Wishing Paul, family, friends and colleagues a very happy 30th anniversary. Ross