Each week we shine the spotlight on a member of Dorset’s business community and ask him, or her, for answers to our part fun/part serious questionnaire. This time…

Her favourite smell is coffee, she’d like to share a car with Peter Kay, says the worst bit of her job is funding cuts and their impact and that she’d like to be remembered for having a positive impact on other people’s lives.

Diane Grannell, Principal and CEO, Bournemouth & Poole College, takes the 20 Questions’ hot seat. 

Question: What is your favourite TV show?

Answer: Coronation Street – reminds me of my northern roots.

Q: Who would you like to share a car with?

A: Peter Kay.

Q: The best bit of my job is…?

A: Working with young people and seeing them achieve things that transform their future.

Q: And the worst…?

A: Funding cuts and their impact.

Q: Who was your childhood hero?

A: My Dad.

Q: What’s your favourite smell?

A: Coffee.

Q: Where’s your favourite place in Dorset?

A: Hengistbury Head.

Q: What advice would you give to anyone starting out on a career?

A: Never do anything that makes you unhappy no matter how attractive the reward package.

Q: What was your first record/CD?

A: Parallel Lines by Blondie.

Q: What gets you angry?

A: Injustice in all its forms.

Q: Do you have a favourite piece of music?

A: Comfortably Numb by Pink Floyd.

Q: What are the qualities you look for in a new employee?

A: Enthusiasm, integrity, alignment with our values.

Q: What’s your favourite food or dish?

A: Lamb curry.

Q: Steamed sponge pudding and custard or a plate of melon?

A: Plate of melon.

Q: Name the best thing about living/working in Dorset?

A: It’s just such a beautiful place to be – it lifts your spirits even on a bad day.

Q: If you were Prime Minister for the day what would be the first thing you do?

A: Increase funding rates for further education.

Q: What’s your biggest frustration?

A: Short term political initiatives.

Q:  Where’s your favourite holiday location?

A: Italy.

Q: Where do you see yourself in ten years’ time?

A: In the sun (I’m retiring at Christmas!).

Q: What would you like to be remembered for?

A: Having a positive impact on other people’s lives.