Clearly this section needs to portray things differently from the cold facts in a CV, and to try to demonstrate one’s level of understanding/expertise in the subjects one claims as expertise/experience areas. So here goes.

First, my studies at Oxford were in Natural Sciences (Chemistry) and this background, plus my early industrial experience as described below, has enabled me to be a sounding board for my son, a research fellow in biochemistry, as he publishes his work. It also means I have a sensible dialogue about medicine with my French wife who is a practising paediatrician in a teaching hospital, but also with her own private practice, which forms part of our house. Since I also now work from home, I actively help with managing her accounts, IT environment, etc. And we even discuss the more interesting cases.!!!

After a substantial period spent in the chemical, medical and pharmaceutical industries, I spent the remainder of my salaried professional career in the IT industry, first as a systems engineer, and later devoting my time to management and marketing in all its forms. In these roles I gained significant experience in almost all aspects of business and commerce including the international side, as the last 15 years were spent in the European headquarters of a major American company.

As for the sports area, in my youth I played at first-class level (UK) at both cricket and rugby, before pursuing a career in refereeing rugby, reaching the top flight in England. I have continued this association in France where, having continued to referee until reaching the age limit, I now am an official supervisor of referees within the French Federation. I now also play golf and take a deep interest in soccer and tennis.

In the classical music area, I am a season-ticket holder at two Parisian concert halls and, as an amateur musician, I still take lessons twice a month!

Taking early retirement to set up as a freelance translator has been the best decision for a long time, allowing me the freedom that working at home affords, and to do other things as time permits. In addition to earning my living with translation though, I also contribute when asked to do work for non-Government Agencies such as Médecins sans Frontières