Wayne, the Chief Financial Officer at Hess Sports Group, is a man of many talents and interests. When he’s not navigating the financial landscape of the company, Wayne enjoys playing golf and football, even participating in a veteran’s team for those over 35. His love for sports is complemented by his passion for reading non-fiction books on topics like self-improvement, AI, and business.
Wayne’s favorite aspect of his job is the freedom it offers to apply his skills across various areas of the business. The variety of challenges that come with being part of a startup keeps his role exciting and dynamic. Reflecting on his journey, Wayne would advise his younger self to sacrifice short-term fun for long-term benefits, emphasising the importance of saving and investing wisely.
A piece of advice that has stuck with Wayne throughout his career is to be himself, regardless of what others think. This philosophy has guided him through various professional and personal challenges. Looking to the future, Wayne’s biggest aspiration is to see his children achieve their dreams, a goal that underscores his dedication to both his family and his career.
As the CFO of Hess Sports Group and Hess Enterprises, Wayne’s typical day is anything but typical. His responsibilities range from liaising with suppliers and talking to lawyers about potential acquisitions to brainstorming new brand launches. This diverse role allows him to leverage his extensive business acumen, which he believes is the most valuable skill in his position. Understanding that everything comes back to cash, Wayne emphasises the importance of having a comprehensive appreciation of all business areas.
One of Wayne’s proudest accomplishments is seeing his team members develop and succeed in their careers, knowing that he played a part in their journey. Outside of work, he enjoys watching his children pursue their passions, whether it’s football or ballet, and pushing himself at the local CrossFit gym.
Among the projects Wayne has worked on at Hess Enterprises, the Hess Cycling project stands out as his favorite. Meeting and supporting the team as they strive for success gives him a sense of fulfillment, as it brings him close to the world of professional sports. If he could attend any sporting event in the world, it would be seeing Leeds United win the Champions League or, more realistically, attending a home Ryder Cup.
Wayne is inspired by “The 33 Laws of Business and Life,” a book that has provided him with valuable insights. To stay active, he not only plays football but also officiates U15 football matches, where his son participates. Despite the occasional shouting and abuse from the sidelines, he enjoys the experience. Additionally, Wayne is part of a pool team, rekindling a passion from his childhood.
Interestingly, Wayne is also a category 2 parachutist, a fact that might surprise many who know him only in his professional capacity.
Wayne’s story is one of dedication, versatility, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His journey at Hess Sports Group is a testament to his ability to balance professional responsibilities with personal passions, making him an invaluable asset to the team.