Discover how Neil Carr transformed his challenging childhood into a thriving business venture.
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The inspiring journey of Neil Carr: From humble beginnings to business success
Neil Carr’s story is a testament to resilience and determination. Growing up in Aberdeen, he faced significant financial challenges that shaped his work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.
From a young age, Neil learned the importance of hard work, juggling multiple jobs while pursuing his education. His experiences as a child of a single mother with four siblings instilled in him a desire to achieve financial stability.
Early life and education
Neil’s childhood was marked by struggles, but it also laid the foundation for his future success. At just 12 years old, he began delivering newspapers and selling toffee door-to-door. By the time he reached 17, Neil was still uncertain about his career path. He enrolled at Nescol in Aberdeen, where he committed to studying for four Highers while working various jobs to support himself.
Despite the oil crash impacting the local economy, Neil made a conscious decision to avoid the oil and gas sector, opting instead to focus on construction and property. His hands-on experience at Stewart Milne’s timber frame systems factory opened his eyes to the world of quantity surveying, leading him to pursue further studies at Aberdeen University, where he earned a Master’s degree in land economy and management.
Transitioning into marine surveying
While studying, Neil took on a job as a marine tank cleaner, which ultimately shifted his career trajectory. The rising oil prices prompted him to abandon his initial ambitions in property and embrace a new path as a marine surveyor. After a year at Marex, he transitioned into a safety coaching role at Bibby Offshore. However, the oil downturn in 2016 forced him to reassess his future, leading him to take control of his destiny.
Founding AMS Global Group
In 2016, Neil partnered with Gary Bruce to establish AMS Global Group, a safety equipment and marine surveying firm. Starting with a modest turnover of £150,000, the company has since grown to achieve over £6 million in revenue, employing 50 people across various locations. Neil’s vision was to create a workplace where employees felt valued and supported, especially during challenging times.
Despite the company’s success, Neil remains grounded, shaped by his upbringing. He emphasizes the importance of creating financial stability for his family, driven by the hunger to ensure they are well taken care of. His journey reflects the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, particularly during the post-Covid era, which he describes as one of the most traumatic periods of his life.
Lessons learned and future aspirations
Reflecting on his journey, Neil acknowledges the privilege of growing up in Aberdeen, where job opportunities were abundant. He advises aspiring entrepreneurs to surround themselves with supportive individuals to share the mental load of business ownership. As he looks forward to welcoming his second child, Neil Carr’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
