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Cardmember Profile: Aspire Down Under

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March 16, 2010

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Business Forecasting 2012

Our special feature on forecasting sheds light on how to choose the right model, offers advice from Jack Stack and more.

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“Thanks for sharing your insights Sharon.”

DARREN CALDWELL

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Sharon Tidbury is the Founder of Aspire Down Under.

First job…
Reservations consultant for a tour operator in London

I started my own business because…
After 10 years in the business and varied experiences, the company I worked for closed their NYC office, leaving a gap in the market. I decided to take advantage of that opportunity.

My role model…
The first owner of the company I worked for when I moved to the U.S. She took a startup and built it into a $20 million a year business and sold it after 15 years.

What defines leadership in business…
Always leading by example, never being afraid to work on the front line, and utilizing all the talented people around you to build a better business.

Best business advice I’ve received…
Don’t try to predict the exchange rates and always meet your obligations.

Worst business advice I’ve received…
To not pay suppliers for as long as possible!

My advice to other business owners…
Treat your employees and suppliers with the same respect you would like. Listen to your customers so that your business can continuously evolve.

I’m most proud of…
That Aspire has grown to a multi-million dollar turnover from an initial $5k investment

Most unusual purchase on my American Express Card ….
$600,000 worth of airline tickets for a group trip to Australia