TEES TIME
In our regular feature, we find out what makes local business leaders tick
Name:
John Betts
Age: 44 Born: Middlesbrough Lives: Nunthorpe Family: 2 Boys, Max & Louis
Organisation & job titles: CEO, INDUSTRO Engineering Group of companies
Tell us about your upbringing: I was born in Middlesbrough and brought up by my mam and dad in a village called Easington, near Saltburn. My childhood was carefree, spent playing football and cricket, making dens with friends and my brother Daniel. It was a great time that gave me special memories. Also, the weather was always great back then for some reason!
Tell us about your first job: My first job was on the‘ clean-up gang’ at Boulby Potash Mine. My dad got me the job while I was home from college during the summer holidays – thrilled to bits I was( not!) It was tough, physical work, but it taught me a great lesson about the value of hard work, working as a team and earning your own way. It’ s something that’ s stuck with me throughout my career- and definitely something my kids will be getting a taste of when they’ re old enough!
How different has your career been from how you imagined it at 21? Well, at 21, I thought I was going to be a rock and roll star! I spent years playing in a band- but my career ended up taking a completely different path. What I do now is pretty much the polar opposite, but I wouldn’ t change a thing. That said, it’ s still great to get up on stage with the lads now and then. Big shoutout to The Fallen!
What one piece of advice would you pass on to those starting out in business? Keep it simple, this picture for me says it all …
Which part of your job do you most enjoy? I feel privileged to work with an amazing team of people with the opportunity to collaborate with such talented colleagues and engage with a diverse range of clients. Each day brings new challenges, and I find it incredibly rewarding to contribute to meaningful work alongside passionate people.
Which part of your job do you least enjoy? For me, it’ s any admin and paperwork tasks- I much prefer being around a table with people, solving problems, generating ideas and getting stuck into strategic thinking. That’ s where I feel most engaged and at my best.
Do you ever doubt yourself as a business leader? I’ d be lying if I said I never did. Everyone has moments of doubt- pretending otherwise can be dangerous. Having such a positive and supportive team around me makes a huge difference. But when you ride this train, you have to trust your instincts and keep moving forward- even when it’ s tough and you can’ t see what’ s coming up.
How do you switch off from work? For me, switching off means walking my Labrador, Duke- he’ s a great excuse to get outside and clear my head and come up with ideas. I also enjoy going to the gym, trying new places to eat, playing guitar and sport generally – both playing and attending events. Getting that balance between work and downtime is really important, and these things help me recharge.
Why does your business matter? My business matters because we strive to be different- I genuinely care about the people I work with and the impact we create. We focus on building lasting relationships and delivering solutions that make a real difference for our people and customers.
Which of your personal traits has been the most important in your career? I’ d say my drive and‘ can-do’ attitude have been key throughout my career. I’ m always willing to take on challenges and adapt. Listening and being open to feedback has also played a huge role- it’ s helped me grow, improve and stay focused on continuous development.
Which of your own personal traits most frustrates you? I’ d say my dyslexia can be frustrating at times, especially when it comes to written communication. However, it’ s also shaped the way I think- I’ m definitely more creative and solution-focused because of it. It’ s taught me resilience, and I’ ve learned to adapt by finding tools and strategies that help me work effectively … well, most of the time anyway!
Which trait in others do you most dislike? I really struggle with people who say“ yes” but don’ t follow through. Reliability and honesty are so important, especially in a team environment. I also find dishonesty particularly damaging- it destroys trust and can create serious issues for everyone involved. Don’ t be a div, please!
If you were to recommend just one book to Tees Business readers, which would it be? I guess I’ m suppose to pick something that makes me sound really clever and sophisticated here— but honestly, I’ d recommend And Away … by Bob Mortimer. It’ s absolutely hilarious. Sometimes you just need a good laugh, and this book delivers that in spades especially the audio book with Bob reading it.
What’ s your favourite local restaurant and why? I’ d have to say Whinstone View- it’ s one of my favourites. The staff are always welcoming, the setting is beautiful and there’ s something really special about sitting outside there on a sunny day. It’ s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy great food.
What social media do you use? None, actually. I prefer to stay focused and in the moment. I find that stepping back from social media helps me do just that.
Which local business leader would you like to see interviewed in this feature? I’ d love to see Mark Roddy from Nordic featured. He’ s a brilliant guy- genuinely passionate about what he does and the positive impact his company is making. His energy, vision and commitment really stand out.
The voice of business in the Tees region | 51