BACKSTORY: UK trade commissioner for Africa Emma Wade-Smith
We question UK trade commissioner for Africa Emma Wade-Smith
Who is your favourite hero of fiction? I’m a sucker for all the Marvel heroes, with a particular soft spot for Iron Man. That’s probably got everything to do with being a Robert Downey jnr fan. Which phrase or word do you most overuse? "We’ll make a plan", to respond to all the things that change so regularly and quickly. My mother-in-law first spotted my liberal use of this phrase and now my extended family all use it too. Your top tip for doing a deal? Take time to understand what’s driving the other party — what are their motivations and pressures for doing a deal and how can both parties benefit and advance their interests. Which talent would you most like to have? I would love to sing well. I love karaoke but I’m not very good; I have a very quiet singing voice. What was your first job? I had a Saturday job at a newsagent in my local town; I couldn’t wait to start work and earn my own money. What’s the worst airport you’ve been in? From my travels so far it has to be Addis Abab...
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