People in business: Jason Oliver

Rotorua's Jason Oliver set up AV Precision Ltd about seven years ago. He has a strong interest in electronics and before setting up his own business, worked as an electronics technician in Rotorua. AV Precision Ltd mainly services the Rotorua area but has also worked in Tauranga, Taupo, Whakatane and Auckland.

Briefly outline your current position.

Managing director of AV Precision Ltd. Carrying out design and installations of audio visual systems for residential and commercial customers.

What was your first job and what did you learn from it?

At 12 years old I got after school and holiday work for Benfield's Garden Centre. It taught me to work hard for very little money. In the holidays I got to work on the subdivision they were doing so that was rewarding seeing the changes as that came along.

What do you see as the greatest opportunity and greatest challenge in your sector in the year ahead?

The challenges are the same as they always have been, educating customers and developers that the technologies we are dealing with is not something "their electrician" can do, but in fact it is a different industry that needs designers/installers that are up to date with industry developments and changes and have relevant "electronic" background or training. There are opportunities for us with the digital rollout of Freeview, but I believe most of the opportunities come about from hard work and good work ethic.

What three skills or qualities are essential in your role/your sector/a good leader?

Definitely an interest in technology, the ability to research and commitment to self train from that research, and excellent customer relations.

How do you maintain a healthy work/life balance?

This is really hard - as a solo dad of two girls, a business owner and also running a small rural property, I just try to use my spare time with the kids and anything that is left over after doing paperwork at night is for me to try and relax ... or catch up on the chores.

If you could do any other job for a day, what would it be?

If I could sing better and play an instrument then I would love to perform on stage. I just think it's such a cool thing to be able to do.

What is one thing most people don't know about you?

When I was a kid I was really good at BMX racing.

What achievement to date are you most proud of and why?

Being a good dad ... you might have to ask the girls if that is true.

What one piece of advice do you wish somebody had given you when you were starting out?

Don't spend too much time at work ... you need family time, especially when you are starting the business because it's so easy to get engulfed by it.

If you could choose anybody to be your business mentor, who would it be and why?

Anyone that has set up/run a successful franchise business and has some background in the technology sector.