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In an era of big business, being an entrepreneur was unusual—but George Mackintosh always knew he wanted to launch a startup.

Graduating in 1979, he cut his teeth in the corporate world while setting up his first business—a microcomputer company that placed him at the forefront of the tech sector.

After that, he established his own teleconferencing company. 17 years later, he's on his seventh successful business. His philosophy?

"Entrepreneurialism is a mindset. So, if you don't have 'the' idea yet—don't worry. It will come."

How does it feel to be selected for the Alumni 100 list?

"Old!"

What made you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School?

"From a home in the north of Scotland, Edinburgh University attractively felt 1,000 miles away!"

What are your memories of studying at the Business School?

"The cocktail of business, economics, and politics! And the Commerce Society and the Industrial Society."

What key thing that you learnt at the Business School do you still rely on today?

"Play hard!"

Proudest work-related achievement to date?

"Passed my HGV Class 1 when still a student. And won more business challenges than I've failed."

What's the one thing you think current students need to develop or learn before entering the modern workplace?

"Know what you want to be—and both happy and successful doesn't always happen."