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.