Howard Rawley
What is your position in the company?
I am the Managing Director here at Rawley Plant. I took over from Malcolm Hodges, our previous MD in April 2012.
How long have you been with the company?
I joined the company in 1991 after having spent 7 years in the Royal Marines. During my military career I spent time in Norway, Northern Ireland and Central America. So, at the age of 23 I decided that I needed to get a “proper” job. Joining the military had always been my goal and I was very pleased to have had the opportunity to serve with such an esteemed fighting unit.
After a period attending college, working on a kids camp in North America as a waterski instructor; and travelling around the US for a month, I joined the family business. My grandfather and father started the company in 1961 and I jumped at the chance to become the third generation to work in the company.
What do you like about the job?
The variety of the role – no two days are the same. Also, working with the people who make up the Rawley team!
What are your interests outside work?
I still enjoy training, although it’s been almost 25 years since I left the Marines. I enjoy swinging….. Kettlebell Swinging that is and Circuit Training. I’ve also been known to participate in the Pleshey Half Marathon. Cooking good food is also a hobby of mine.
If you were a super hero, who would you be?
Doctor Who – so I could travel through time!
What’s your favourite music?
Anything that’s not punk or rap. I’m going to the Cambridge Folk Festival this year and also have tickets to see a Jamaican-born jazz pianist at Ronnie Scott’s, so I guess I’m heading for middle-aged, middle of the road stuff!
What’s your favourite film?
The Long Good Friday
What did you want to be when you grew up?
From an early age I was actively involved with cubs, scouts then venture scouts so I was always keen on the great outdoors! I always wanted to be part of the military and specifically the Royal Marines after seeing them perform at the Royal Tournament. So, at least I got to fulfil my ambition.