10 In 10: John Rastrick

John Rastrick, founder and CEO at Harrogate-based net zero climate-tech platform and consultancy Flotilla is the latest regional professional in the hot seat as the p.ublished group of newspapers gives him just 10 minutes to answer our 10 burning questions.

What does a typical working day involve?

Our Harrogate office is close to home which means I can often nip to the gym before heading to work. I’ll then check my emails and catch up with the team before working on product development. We continue to innovate and develop our net zero technology platform to ensure our clients can deliver their own sustainable strategies.

Client priorities are a large part of my focus for the day and I typically meet with prospective and existing clients to consult on their objectives and activities. My favourite part of the day is when I help clients align their priorities around their goals, delving into leader values and how they wish to make a positive impact in their communities. It’s a privilege to get to know them in such detail.

We’re a sociable team and often finish the day with an activity which brings us all together, such as padal tennis; training quiz; or a catch up over a drink.

What makes Flotilla special?

A few things. Firstly, our high-quality and sustainability-focussed consulting and tech development experts.

Also, we’ve invested three years into the development and trialling of our carbon accounting and net zero tech to make it intuitive and user friendly for our clients, we now know it is trusted by both SMEs and global businesses.

And, importantly, we put purpose before profits which is something that is reflected in our B Corp status and of which we are extremely proud.

Do you have any business rules that you swear by?

Being a servant leader. For me it’s about recognising the strengths of the team, ensuring they have the support and resources they need to succeed and being a hands-on support - working on the business while being in the business, are both important, particularly for a young company, like Flotilla.

Do you dress up or down for work?

I dress down, but smart enough for meetings.

What piece of advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Find something you love, devote time to learn from the best and then do it for yourself.

What’s your favourite Yorkshire venue for an event or team away day?

Rewilding organisation Make it Wild’s nature reserve near Summerbridge for tree planting and team building has a fantastic space for team away days. Make it Wild is one of our sustainability partners offering carbon offsetting through tree planting, tree and other nature dedications and other biodiversity-related activities. They also have some great pubs nearby.

How do you prefer to travel for work?

By train, where possible. If it’s not possible due to timings or routes then I reluctantly drive (my electric car).

What’s your favourite place in Yorkshire to relax?

I enjoy walking at Swinsty and Fewston Reservoirs. It’s a serene and beautiful part of the world and a great place to reflect and contemplate.

Where is your favourite place to eat in Yorkshire and what dish do you recommend?

The Blue Lion in East Witton near Leyburn. It’s a traditional English pub serving the best Yorkshire produce, with a real ale bar. It has a hand-chalked board with the day’s selection of locally sourced specials – just too difficult to choose a favourite dish.

What do you miss most about Yorkshire when you’re away?

The countryside. Yorkshire’s diverse landscapes, natural beauty, history and friendly communities. All have such a positive impact on our well-being.