Mark Newberry, commercial director, UK and Ireland at Europcar Mobility Group, tells John Challen about his proudest career moment and the best takeaway food.

Mark Newberry, commercial director, UK and Ireland at Europcar Mobility Group

What is your ambition in your current job role?

To continue my professional development in what is a new sector to me – and to make life easier for our customers.

What job did you want to do when you were growing up?

An architect. I liked technical drawing at school, so it seemed like an opportunity to do more.

What’s the proudest moment in your career?

My journey from a frontline role at a call centre to now. Also, during Covid, I worked at Green Flag and we won an award for offering free recoveries for NHS staff, which was a proud moment for me and my team.

The best takeaway food?

Fish and chips – with mushy peas on the side. Followed closely by a curry.

Favourite James Bond?

Daniel Craig. The closest thing to ginger (like me) that there will be to a Bond!

If money were no object, what’s the first thing you would buy?

A place in the Lake District. We go once a year as a family and absolutely love it.

Three-car dream garage?

Inspector Morse’s Jaguar Mk 2, an ID. Buzz and my first car – a gold Nissan Micra.

What are the biggest challenges facing fleets at the moment?

Sourcing vehicles that drivers want and also the time it takes to deal with maintenance and repairs. Whether it’s a small or large fleet, having a vehicle off the road affects the person and their mobility.

You’re on your dream holiday. Where are you?

The Inca Trail. I’ve never been but it looks spectacular.

Night in or night out?

Night out, because I have a lot of nights in! I like music and a bit of a dance, so anywhere good in Bristol will do.

Your supermarket of choice?

Lidl in store; Tesco delivery.

What car do you currently drive?

Tesla Model 3.

Tea, coffee or other?

Tea. Strong, no sugar.

Books or magazines?

Books. Richard Osman’s books are a favourite of mine.

Who is your idol in life and work?

Both sets of my grandparents. They all had tough beginnings but worked hard to change that, which is really inspirational. In work, it would be James Timpson, CEO of the Timpson Group.