Business / Companies

Finding new bearings for development

By He Wei in Shanghai (China Daily) Updated: 2014-07-25 07:33

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Q&A |

Tom Johnstone

How do you spend your weekend amid your busy schedule?

I like to spend time with my family and whenever possible go to ice hockey matches or watch Formula One racing.

What are your hobbies?

I play golf - but not so well - and I listen to music.

What is the saying that you like the most? Why?

Treat others as you wish to be treated yourself. Why? Just because you have a business card that says you are CEO does not mean you should act or be treated in a special way.

Who is your icon?

Alex Ferguson - He is the former manager of Manchester United football team in the UK.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

When my family is happy.

What is your greatest fear?

My biggest fear is enclosed spaces (claustrophobia. I hate small and crowded elevators.

What is the quality you most admire in a man?

Honesty.

What is the quality you most admire in a woman?

The same - honesty.

What do you dislike most about your appearance?

I am not tall enough for my weight (meaning I am overweight!)

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Being married for over 30 years and having brought up three children.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Nothing apart from being a little thinner.

What is your most treasured possession?

Signed Bruce Springsteen memorabilia.

What kind of "green" lifestyle do you follow?

I try to practice living in a "green" way, with energy efficient appliances, lighting, etc., and have installed a "green" thermal heating system in my house.

What's the best way to break the ice with a Chinese businessman you've met for the first time?

Be polite, respectful but also knowledgeable about their business and what you can do to help them.

Name places in China that impressed you most and you have not visited but want to explore?

I have not spent enough time visiting China from a non-business viewpoint but I was truly amazed when I visited the Great Wall - what a fantastic achievement. I want to see the Terracota Army on one of my future visits.

What kind of experience has shaped your thoughts the most?

Working in SKF for more than 37 years I have seen the strength of teamwork and the value of respect in such a global organization. SKF is like a family and with such a base and a clear message you can surely be successful.

Three words to describe your impression of Chinese businessmen.

Ambitious, confident and respectful.

What is the book you are reading now? (What is your favorite book?)

Set in Darkness by Ian Rankin.