In the Driving Seat: Robert Evans, CEO, Cenex
Here’s your chance to find out more about Robert Evans, CEO, Cenex – for instance, is he more likely to spend his Sunday mornings taking his Mazda MX-5 for a blast through the Leicestershire countryside, or reading Thucydides’ History of the Peloponnesian War?…
Name
Robert Evans
Company
Cenex
Position
CEO
Apart from that
Board director Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC)
Board director Electric Corby (community energy company)
Board director Scottish Hydrogen Fuel Cell Association
Automotive Council Technology Group Member
Chair UK Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) Trade Association
Association with NAA
I’ve worked with the NAA as part of regional engagement for almost 10 years, but have had a closer and excellent working relationship since Carol joined the organisation.
Personal
I originated from the North East, then went South to London to study chemistry, and am currently gravitating northwards again via Cambridge and now Loughborough, where I currently live with my wife. I also have two daughters, one in her late teens and in her early 20’s. I’m an avid reader, a football and cricket fan, and I enjoy travelling, but my main two areas of focus at the moment are my ‘home’ family and my ‘work’ family.
I’ve had a varied car-owning history, starting with an old Volkswagen Beetle and also owning a 1970’s Citroen GSA. I had a Ford Sierra for more than 10 years and then a Mercedes C-Class. Since joining Cenex I have had Prius, gas Volvo and two BMWs. Currently I have both a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and a Mazda MX-5, which is one more car than I can park on my drive.
Favourite football team
Newcastle United…although I am also an American Football Fan (Detroit Lions). Both teams are trophy dodgers.
Musical performer
My musical taste (a bit like my cars) is best described as an eclectic mix, primarily of world music and Northern Soul – and I’m always on the lookout for something new!
Movie
Withnail and I, and Pulp Fiction
Books
I used to read a lot of business books but these days it’s history, especially classical Greek including re-reading Thucydides’ History of the Peloponnesian War’
Best motoring moment
Through my involvement with the Cenex Low Carbon Vehicle Event I’ve been able to take various vehicles on Millbrook’s hill circuit, ranging from Jaguar’s range-extended electric vehicle to the Porsche Panamera Hybrid. And of course I should mention taking my MX-5 for a drive on the country roads in Leicestershire!
Best business advice you’ve ever received?
Always be positive, and use your head to rationalise if your stomach’s gut instinct is correct or not. Steven Covey’s “Start with the end in mind” is also a memorable and useful mantra.
