DAVID Emslie started his working life as a public relations officer promoting jet fighters for British Aerospace before embarking on a high flying career in marketing.

His work in advertising and marketing has seen him operate at director level for a number of renowned agencies including The JDA Group where he was responsible for accounts such as SKY, Abbey National and The Prudential.

His career has also seen him take the position of business development director at Equifax plc - one of the world's largest credit reference and database marketing data suppliers, where his five strong team managed 60 accounts generating £4.4 million a year in sales.

Mr Emslie, who lives at Seaton Ross and is married with three daughters, set up his own marketing consultancy before seizing the opportunity to launch Novalux LED - a specialist provider of commercial LED lighting systems.

He said: "I have worked for hundreds of clients over the years but this is the first time an opportunity has presented itself which has such terrific potential that I felt compelled to start a business in that sector.

"We have a wonderful opportunity to build a sizeable business which will not only turn a profit but in doing so, will help companies and public sector organisations to make significant savings on their energy costs.

"We are just at the start of our journey but already we are creating jobs and attracting tremendous interest from companies and organisations who can see that our LED lighting systems will save them money and provide an eco friendly solution."

What job would you like to have other than your own and why?

"Well after 40 years working for major corporates, travelling up to 40,000 miles a year and being away from home for a third of the year, I'm extremely happy with my present role.

"I'm thoroughly enjoying working with local companies helping them to save money and making a real difference to their businesses - and I get to go home every night."

What is your greatest achievement?

"I have enjoyed lots of successes in business and taken great satisfaction in being able to help clients. As a young man I was keen on amateur dramatics and I once played the leading role in West Side Story at the Blackpool Winter Gardens which was a huge thrill.

"But when it really comes down to it my greatest achievement is being part of a 38 year marriage and bringing up three beautiful daughters."

What makes you most angry?

"I don't get angry very often but I do get frustrated by Governments who promise to improve the environment and support green energy solutions but then fail to back up their words with actions."

What was your biggest mistake?

"In reality we all make mistakes at some time but the key thing is learning from those mistakes and avoid making them in the future. I enjoy victories but you can learn more from mistakes.

"One thing I do know is that if a mistake is made tell the customer about it and how you are putting things right- its far worse if the customer finds out about it third hand."

What do you need to make life complete?

"Not surprisingly, I'm a great believer in green energy so a Tesla electric sports car would be great fun and would be almost guilt free."

Why do you make a difference?

"I bring experience, enthusiasm and vision. You need a can-do attitude in business but also the ability to identify and maximise opportunities. I get a great deal of satisfaction from developing solutions that make a real difference to our customers."

What would be your epitaph?

"To be remembered at all would be nice - so many good people are quickly forgotten."