How did you become involved with the dental industry?
I left school at 16 and got a job as an apprentice dental technician. I left after qualifying and went into retail management, but then came back to dentistry as a rep 12 years ago.
What is it about the industry that has kept you so long?
The people.
What is your faviourite dental product?
Ah, daft question! Anything IT-based; CT and Cerec are my favourites at moment.
What is your most memorable moment in the dental industry?
Cerec’s 20th anniversary in Berlin. It was Paddy’s day, I was with a load of dentists and we drank the bar dry.
Are you a good dental patient?
Better since I stopped biting!
What changes do you think will reflect the industry and profession the most over the next five years?
IT will become more important; with new innovations in IT products the future will be very exciting.
In your opinion, what has been the greatest step forward in the Irish dental market since you started?
Cerec.
Who do you admire in dentistry?
It sounds sad but there is a dentist up in Belcoo whose practice is like walking into a home, and his forward-thinking outlook is amazing. His work is very impressive.
Who do you admire away from the profession?
My wife. I am never at home as I work away a lot and she still has not put my dinner in the dog.
What would you like to achieve – professionally?
I would like to rule the world!
Personally?
I want to live in West Cork in the middle of nowhere, overlooking the sea. I also want to be totally eco-friendly and self-suffient.
Have you any regrets – professionally?
No, because you learn from regrets and become stronger. My past is part of me; without it I would not be who I am.
What makes you angry?
It takes a lot, but when you get people lying about what equipment can do, it hacks me off.
What makes you laugh?
Norman Crowe (of Henry Schein). Get him to tell you a joke.
How do you deal with stress?
I grind my teeth, creating business for me for the future! Oh, and I go shooting at the weekend, which helps.
What three books would you want to have with you if you were stranded on a desert island?
Sniper One, I am the Cheese and Atlantis.
What has been your happiest moment in life?
The birth of my son. Also I recently got married, which is hard to beat.
Where in the world would you most like to live?
West Cork would be fine, but Banff in Canada would be great too.
Can you summarise yourself in 10 words?
Nerd, geek, ADHD. I love Cerec to the point of obsession (sad, I know).
