Christmas Spotlight: Damian Waters

If ever there was a year when we need some festive cheer, it’s 2020. So, for our annual advent calendar of Q&As with the region’s businesspeople, we’ve tried to focus on what brings you joy.

Every day in December, we’ll invite someone into the Christmas spotlight, with 10 quickfire questions…

Next up, it’s Damian Waters, CBI's North West Director …

Complete the sentence: “If there’s one thing 2020 has taught me, it’s…”

To never take the small pleasures in life for granted again.

If you could give a one-line shout out to your team, for how they’ve handled this year, what would you say?

I’ve really valued your hard work, support and commitment, but the most important thing has been your friendship.

Were you guilty of any lockdown splurges?

I’ve always been a book buyer, but lockdown buying habits now mean we’ve run out of shelf space at home.

In fewer than 50 words, summarise three things your business has to look forward to, in 2021.

A vaccine being rolled out and allowing us to return to something resembling normality, helping businesses bounce back and demonstrating the great resilience we are famous for, and getting back to seeing people in person rather than on a screen.

Which business do you think has gone above and beyond, this year?

There are far too many to mention, but business has really stepped up during the pandemic, have helped keep people safe, delivered vital services and products and even made sure that local communities have been fed.

What’s your oldest Christmas memory?

One of my brothers (I’m one of eight children) shouting “he’s been” at about 3am on Christmas morning when I was about 5 or 6.

What’s the one thing you could never be without, on your Christmas dinner plate?

Has to be roast potatoes, although I am probably in the minority when I say I do really like sprouts!

What’s your favourite Christmas tipple, film and tune?

I enjoy a good beer and there are lots to choose from in Lancashire. We have a family tradition of watching The Polar Express every Christmas Eve. You can’t beat Fairytale of New York.

What are you most looking forward to, about Christmas 2020?

My family being together (hopefully) and my daughter turning 18.

And a message to your friends, family, colleagues and peers as they welcome in 2021?

I’ve missed you, but we’re going to be back together soon.