Christmas Spotlight: Tristan Jackson

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 Tristan Jackson, Sales Manager from Salamander Fabrications…

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

…to make sure you check in with friends and family, be kind and supportive.”

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

Shout out to my team for adapting to the challenges of the pandemic while having the drive and determination to keep going.

Were you guilty of any lockdown splurges?

A barbecue, walking boots, a mountain bike and gardening equipment — same as the rest of the country, apparently!

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

We look forward to the country beginning its economic recovery. We are in the midst of an exciting growth period for the business. And we have also made a considerable investment over the last 12 months, so we should see this benefit Salamander Fabrications significantly in 2021.

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

Morrisons set up an online portal for NHS staff and a dedicated telephone service for the elderly and vulnerable to ensure they received priority service – which I think is commendable.

What’s your oldest Christmas memory?

Waking up to find an overflowing stocking at the bottom of my bed — there’s just something magical about that!

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

Pigs in blankets — it’s not Christmas without them.

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

I love a morning Buck’s Fizz, an afternoon spent watching ‘Santa Claus: The Movie’, and an evening listening to ‘Fairytale of New York’ by The Pogues.

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

The time off — we close for ten days so it’s a nice, long break. Fingers crossed lockdown won’t be enforced so we can all celebrate together.

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

If anything, 2020 has taught us not to take anything for granted. Make 2021 the year you go the extra mile with relationships — at home and at work. See the New Year as an opportunity to refocus and set goals, then go ahead and achieve them.