Interview: John Wall, Managing Director of Sugar International

What was your first job?
Horse strapper. My dad is a horse trainer so I started work as soon as I was able to muck out the boxes and yards - probably about 5 years old. I got through university training race horses and left the industry when I was 19 to start in real estate.

Did you enjoy it?
I loved the rough and tumble of the industry. You mix with a vast range of people, from high-profile businesspeople to the knockabout blokes who are trying to back the last winner of the day so they can feed their families. I loved race days - still do. Can't say I loved losing and wasn't a big fan of mucking out the boxes.

What did you learn?
It taught me about human behaviour. You need to maintain a sense of self-belief and have humility. I learned that training behind the scenes affects performance on game day. You can't win without preparation.

What was your boss like?
My dad was my first boss. I learned from him that you need to work hard to be successful - if there was a race between talent and hard work, hard work would win every time.

Why did you leave?
I wanted to have more control over my future, to be a successful businessman and own racehorses NOT train them. I started in real estate sales.

Any advice for someone starting out?
Join an industry that aligns with your values and do not be afraid to start at the bottom. Learn as much as possible - speak to the best industry people. Do not take yourself too seriously and realise neither success nor failure is final.