Scott Shields, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at luxury wooden bed makers Get Laid Beds, talks about the role he has held since June this year and why clutter-free is currently on-trend.
Let’s start with you. Can you share a bit about yourself and your background?
I live in Leicester but I cherish my family’s Scottish heritage, we moved down to the Midlands from Glasgow when I was a young boy. Today, I’m a proud parent myself, constantly kept on my toes by my incredible teenage children. Music has been my lifelong passion, having picked up the guitar at 14, and I still find lots of enjoyment in playing it almost every day. I love the thrill of motorsports, I escape on my Triumph motorbike whenever I get the chance. Cycling is another passion of mine, though I must admit I’m not particularly fond of rainy days or headwinds.
What is your current job role and key responsibilities?
CEO of Get Laid Beds. I assumed the role in June 2023, taking on a range of crucial responsibilities. Spearheading our strategic initiatives, I focus on developing and effectively communicating our growth-focused vision. Collaborating closely with our talented team, I ensure prudent financial management to support our company’s stability and progress. Investor relations is also under my purview, as I work to foster strong connections with our smart and passionate founders. Additionally, I prioritise the development of our exceptional senior leadership team, aiming to nurture their talents and maintain high performance. Looking ahead, I will be making key hires to further strengthen our talent pool in the upcoming period. Together, we are poised for success and growth at Get Laid Beds
What do you love about your job?
As part of Get Laid Beds, I find myself in a truly remarkable position. This company boasts an exceptional manufacturing facility, an attentive client services team, and a brilliant web development team. It is a business that is primed for growth, having already established itself as a leader in its industry. With a solid foundation in place, we are ready to embark on an exciting journey of expansion and success. What is not to love?
What time is your alarm clock set for?
Every morning, my alarm faithfully wakes me up at 6:30 am. I make my bed, a 1hr spin session on most days, a shower, coffee and a bowl of porridge then a short commute to Get Laid Beds HQ in Leicester.
Why did you choose to work in the furnishing industry?
As a business, Get Laid Beds has two symbiotic sides; the first, we pride ourselves on making and selling beautiful handcrafted beds on demand. The second, we are a highly successful eCommerce business. It was this technology aspect that drew me to the role and the industry. The dynamic world of ecommerce offers endless opportunities for growth, new markets and innovation, making it an exciting and compelling sector to be a part of.
Who do you most admire in the industry and why?
As I am new to the industry this is an easy one, this accolade goes to our co-founders Jean Lomard and Jonny Haskins. Their journey from making one bed at a time in a garage in Leicester, to a 100 strong workforce that services 97% of the countries on the globe is nothing short of incredible.
Have there been any special moments during your career?
When two men called Jean and Jonny asked me to join their team and assume the position of Chief Executive Officer …a pretty special moment.
What is your favourite item of furniture you own and why?
Obviously, my bed… There is a fabulous speech on YouTube from Admiral William H McRaven. Where he eloquently shares his views on why we should all start our day by making our bed. Essentially, it’s a task we can start and complete successfully at the start of our day, which encourages us on to our next task. If you can’t do the little things right, you will never do the big things right. And, if by chance you have a miserable day, you will come home to a bed that is made — that you made — and a made bed gives you encouragement that tomorrow will be better. If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.
What do you think is trending in the industry at the moment?
Being clutter-Free, it seems minimalism is here to stay, with hidden storage replacing open shelves and neutral materials increasingly in vogue. Modern minimalism is far from cold, with interior fashionistas and influencers continuing to lean into the so-called Japandi trend. It is influenced by the ancient Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, a way of life which values slow-living, contentment and simplicity, as well as the Scandinavian practice of hygge, which embraces comfort, cosiness and wellbeing.
What would you change in the industry?
Good question… Whilst eCommerce gives us global reach, online marketing and shopping pages puts hand crafted British beds next to mass produced import sold on the quality of the imagery rather than quality of the product.
Can you share an insight into your future plans?
Plans are in place as we prepare the business for its next stage of growth, but that’s all I can say right now!
What do you enjoy most outside of work / free time?
When it comes to my top three passions, they revolve around spending quality time with my children and partner, socialising with cherished family and friends, and immersing myself in the world of music through both listening and playing guitar. With a diverse taste that spans from AC/DC to Eva Cassidy, filling my home or car with soul-stirring melodies is truly one of my greatest pleasures.
What might someone not know about you?
Hailing from the vibrant city of Glasgow, I am a Scotsman filled with immense pride for my Scottish heritage.
If you had a different career, what would it be?
Initially drawn to the world of art and pursuing a fine art degree, I soon confronted the practical challenges of sustaining a livelihood as a struggling artist. The realisation that I needed a stable career to ensure a roof over my head and a future family compelled me to explore other avenues. This serendipitously led me to the realm of technology, ultimately finding a fulfilling home at Get Laid Beds.
Finally, if you were an item of furniture, what would it be and why?
While I may not excel at role play, if I were to personify myself, I believe I would resemble a toughened glass coffee table. Just like this unique piece of furniture serves as the hub of a conversation, I too enjoy being in the centre of engaging discussions where interested parties gather for updates and decisions. The glass element of the table represents qualities of clarity and resilience, reflecting my commitment to transparency and my ability to withstand challenges.
Five Fun qs:
1) If you could hack into any one computer, whose computer would you choose and why?
I don’t have these skills nor desire them but if I was to hack anyone. It would be Warren Buffet’s Berkshire Hathaway account, to pick up some trading tips based on insightful analytics.
2) What fact amazes you every time you think of it?
Leo Fender is a legend, he perfected the electric guitar, but he couldn’t play the guitar and didn’t like rock’n’roll
3) What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?
Getting a perm…
4) What is the most important object you own and why?
A frame in my office that contains a Scottish £1 note and an American $1 bill. The £1 was a gift from my mother and the dollar was a gift from my Auntie Betty (her sister), Betty had spent the majority of her adult life in America. Sadly, neither of these wonderful ladies are with us anymore, so the sentimental value of the notes is immeasurable to me.
5) What did you think was cool when you were young but isn’t cool now?
…a perm
