Amplify interview with Tesco Bank's Benny Higgins

Ahead of his appearance at this year's Amplify Festival we caught up with Benny Higgins, CEO of Tesco Bank.

What is the best advice you've ever received?
As a young actuary at Standard Life, the then FD Iain Lumsden said to me that young, smart, inexperienced people undervalue the importance of experience in solving problems. 

What should you not underestimate?
The value of trust. It is the foundation of all relationships. It is the glue that binds us together. It requires and enables finding refuge in the truth. 

What is your golden rule?
A simple maxim - always try to do the right thing. 

Who is your biggest influence?
My maternal grandfather. He engendered a curiosity in me about life that has (largely) served me well. 

Who is a leader you admire most?
Alex Ferguson for his focus, his strength of character, and his ability to adapt. 

What is your favourite book?
There are so many books that I have enjoyed and which have influenced me. Two stand out. The Great Gatsby was a book that stunned me with its poetic prose, and The Unbearable Lightness of Being made me think about my life in a different way. Currently I am reading three books - I put a spell on you by John Burnside, A fine balance by Rohinton Mistry, and Napoleon by Michael Broers. 

What is your favourite album?
The first by vinyl I bought was Kind of Blue by Miles Davis - a magnificent album which I still listen to often. The album I return to most is Closing Time by Tom Waits - released in 1973 and as fresh today as it was then.

Benny is the keynote speaker for the The Ogilvy Lecture at our Amplify Marketing Festival this August 14 in Edinburgh.