Next up in our ‘Connection Series’ is our finance wizard Craig MacMorran so let’s find out who is the man behind the spreadsheets…

• Let’s start with an introduction, what’s your role at Connect Three and what do you do?

Hi! I am the Finance Manager here at Connect Three, so my job is to make sure everything is finely tuned. Being an incredibly dynamic, fast growing organisation, it is important that we track and predict the internal and external environment for us to be able to make the most impactful investments and to be able to adapt and maintain efficient processes…I am also in charge of the music.

1. 1. Haha! Love it! Next up, what has been your favourite moment in Connect Three so far?

My favourite moment so far was our end of year meeting. During the year it can be really difficult to take the time to reflect on what we have achieved as we are all extremely busy and looking into what can we do next. It’s amazing to see what has changed since joining part time from university when my interview took place in what I can only describe as a construction site (What is now our lovely training room) up to this amazing team we have now.

1. 1. • Good choice it was a great day! Next question – what three things would you take with you on a desert island?

A good once a day Suntan lotion, a case of beer and a magic lamp for three more wishes.

1. 1. 1. Always with the future planning Craig! So which business leader would you like to have a cup of tea with?

Sir Alex Ferguson (and not just because Barbs picked Klopp!). Being a long-suffering Manchester United fan, and after meeting the man himself twice, I decided to pick up his book ‘Leading’ a couple of years ago. After reading this book, I was amazed at the intricacy of his management style. It was clear that Sir Alex took great care and thought about anything he implemented and that he constantly took advice from others with his coaching style. One piece of advice that stuck came early in his career where his assistant manager at the time had told him that instead of running his training, he should sit back so that he can listen and observe.

‘It was the best thing I ever did. It didn’t take away my control. My presence and ability to supervise were always there and what you can pick up by watching is incredibly valuable.’ Sir Alex Ferguson

After all, if the most decorated football manager in history says it’s the best thing he ever did, its maybe something we all should do from time to time.

1. 1. 1. • Awesome. OK, last one – if you could only give one piece of advice to the leaders and future leaders reading this, what would it be?

If I could give one piece of advice to the leaders and future leaders reading this, it would be to challenge. Nothing is more disappointing when leaders accept the way things are done because that’s how they have always been done. The only way you grow and learn is to change the way you do things even if they do not lead you where you planned to be.

Fabulous Craig, thank you so much. Look out for our next ‘Connect with’ interview in a few weeks time.