60 Seconds Interview with Derek Wyatt
What was your first
job?
I was a trainee accountant at the private King Edward VII
hospital near Midhurst in Sussex, where I was in charge of billing patients.
What attracted you to Trinity?
I came to Trinity in February, 2011, having stepped down as an MP in
May, 2010. I saw advert in the
FT for the chairman post, which went straight to my heart. My brother had died from cancer at 47.
What was your career path?
Early on I taught history for ten years but knew that I wasn’t
destined to be a teacher so I went to Oxford to do a masters. Whilst there I enjoyed life, did some stand
up comedy, I spoke at the Union and got a Rugby blue for playing in the
centenary varsity match. It was whilst I was a Oxford that began writing for
The Times and The Observer. Writing, publishing, television and online finally led me to Parliament.
Who’s influenced your
career?
Nelson Mandela. I worked to raise funds for the ANC whilst
he was in prison and finally got to meet him after he was released at a private
dinner held for him in St John’s Wood. He was spell binding.
What’s on your desk?
Clutter! Lots of DVDs I havn’t watched, three computer
systems and lots of notes along with my fountain pen that I always use. I’m studying for a MA at the moment, so I’ve
been busy revising for exams.
What’s the best piece
of advice you could give someone?
Failure is nearly being successful. Failure can be enriching as you can reflect
on why you failed, and this allows you to learn faster.
What’s your favourite
holiday destination?
India and Tibet. I
also love Sienna in Italy.
Who’s your personal
hero / heroine?
Ghandi
Favourite Book? Robert Persig (who recently died): Zen and the Art of Motor Cycle Maintenance
What would be your
prefect day away from work?
I like Ronnie Scotts a lot, so it would have to involve
being there. In fact any Jazz bar in the world would be great.