Diane Maxwell – Driver Hire Belfast

Having worked in management for Driver Hire for many years, Diane Maxwell jumped at the chance when offered the opportunity to run her very own Driver Hire franchise in 2012. The business has gone from strength-to-strength and is one of the top 10 performing Driver Hire offices in the UK, turning over £2m per year.

On what made her move from the somewhat cosier world of employment to that of being her own boss: “In the first instance, I just love the business,” says Diane. “Having run it for someone else, I could see the potential, and the idea of making it mine was an exciting one. I still feel the same. The big difference I’ve noticed is that, as your own boss, you really cherish success.”

“Running your own business can be hard work. As my business grew I was able to take on staff and achieve a much better work/life balance. Building a team you can trust means you can step away from your business and know that it is in safe hands. As a result, I’m now able to work a four-day week.”