At 81 years old, Sir Terry Matthews has achieved what most people can only dream of – a fortune of £1.3 billion. However, in a recent interview, the Welsh-Canadian entrepreneur revealed that his wealth does not interest him as much as his passion for business and innovation. He also spoke about his views on retirement and his plans for his vast business empire.
Sir Terry Matthews’ journey to success is nothing short of inspiring. Born in Newport, Wales, he completed his education in Swansea before moving to Canada in the 1960s to pursue a career in the telecommunications industry. With hard work, determination, and a keen eye for business opportunities, Sir Terry founded Mitel in 1972, a company that revolutionized the telecom industry. He went on to establish several other successful companies, including Newbridge Networks, March Networks, and Wesley Clover.
Today, at 81, Sir Terry is still actively involved in his businesses and is constantly looking for new ventures to invest in. When asked about his vast fortune, he humbly stated that it does not interest him as much as his passion for business. He believes that wealth should not be the main driving force behind one’s actions and that true success lies in making a positive impact on society.
Sir Terry’s philosophy on retirement is also quite unconventional. He believes that retirement is not about stopping work but rather about finding new and exciting ways to contribute to society. He stated, “I don’t think retirement is a good idea. People, when they retire, they tend to do nothing. And when you do nothing, you’re not really living.” This mindset is evident in Sir Terry’s own life as he continues to actively lead his companies and invest in new projects, even in his 80s.
Despite his vast wealth and success, Sir Terry remains down-to-earth and approachable. He is often seen mingling with his employees and is known for his hands-on approach to business. He believes in creating a positive work environment and investing in his employees’ growth and development. His leadership style has won him immense respect and admiration from his colleagues and employees.
Speaking about his business empire, Sir Terry revealed that he has no plans of slowing down. He is constantly looking for new opportunities to expand his companies and has a particular interest in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain. He believes that these technologies have the potential to transform industries and improve people’s lives.
In addition to his business ventures, Sir Terry is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has donated millions of pounds to various charities and educational institutions, including the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and Cardiff University. He is also a strong advocate for entrepreneurship and actively supports young entrepreneurs through his company, Wesley Clover.
Sir Terry Matthews’ success story is a testament to the fact that age is just a number. At 81, he continues to be a trailblazer in the business world and an inspiration to many. His views on wealth, retirement, and business are unconventional but refreshing. He proves that true success lies not in the amount of money one has, but in the impact they make on the world.
In conclusion, Sir Terry Matthews is a true visionary and a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs. His journey from a small town in Wales to becoming a billionaire businessman is a testament to his hard work, determination, and passion for innovation. As he continues to lead his businesses and invest in new ventures, there is no doubt that Sir Terry will continue to make a positive impact on society and inspire future generations to chase their dreams.