Staff Spotlight: James Mattin, Managing Director & Auctioneer

In this series, we get to know our colleagues a little better—learning about their careers, inspirations, and personal interests.

This time, we’re featuring James Mattin, Managing Director & Auctioneer. With over 21 years at Bond Wolfe, James has played a huge role in shaping the business. From his early days in football to a brief flirtation with MI5, James’ career journey has been anything but ordinary. He’s driven by a deep passion for property and is motivated by his family, his team, and—of course—his beloved trophyless Tottenham Hotspur.

Let’s dive into James’ Staff Spotlight and learn more about what makes him tick.

Business Questions

What do you enjoy most about working at Bond Wolfe?

The freedom to operate how I want. I joined the business 21 years ago from a corporate PLC environment where you were highly restricted in what you could or could not do. Here, we have the autonomy to come up with an idea and run with it.

If you weren’t in your current role, what career would you have pursued?

I played football under Harry Redknapp in his Bournemouth days and committed everything to being a footballer. Ultimately, I wasn’t good enough, so I followed my second love—sports journalism—for a brief time. I also got shortlisted for a job with MI5 as a terrorist informant officer, but ultimately decided the thrill of selling property was my true calling!

Who has inspired you most in your business life?

My Dad & our Chairman, Paul Bassi.

I lost my dad two years ago, and amongst many things, I miss his inspiration and career advice. He was Finance Director at Severn Trent when the company was privatised, and I watched firsthand how he battled through the surrounding negativity with sheer determination and an incredible work ethic. He would come home from work at 8pm, eat his dinner, then be back in his home office to carry on working—always with the thought of providing for his family at the forefront.

Paul has been an inspiration and role model since the day I joined the company. A mind and drive like no other. With his constant pursuit of expansion and success, my mantra has always been: ‘grab his coat tails and hang on for dear life’!

What drives and motivates you?

My wife & two children. My wife provides the foundation that allows me to do what I do. Lily & Charlie give me the reason to keep going—even in the most difficult times.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your career so far?

You can’t control the uncontrollable. Sometimes, a deal will go wrong and none of the reasons are within your control—so don’t beat yourself up about it.

Personal Questions

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Obviously, family time, but golf is a big passion—as is watching my beloved Tottenham Hotspur. My close friends are very important to me, so spending time with them always puts a smile on my face. Finally, spending time in Marbella, my spiritual home.

Do you have any hidden talents or surprising skills?

I think it’s clear to anyone who’s heard me performing karaoke that it’s my singing voice!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Never ever give up. My Dad instilled this in me from an early age, and it’s stayed with me ever since.

What’s your favourite book, movie, or TV show and why?

Book-wise, it’s The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason—full of life lessons for all, and one I will insist my kids read. I wish I had read it when I was younger.

If you could meet any historical figure or celebrity, who would it be?

Winston Churchill. Being half German, I have studied World War II from both sides, and his leadership through the darkest of times & against all odds will never be surpassed.

Rapid Fire Round

• Favourite food? Paella
• Sweet or savoury? Savoury
• Favourite season? 1981/1982 – won the cup!!!!
• Go-to karaoke song? Mr. Bojangles – Sammy Davis Jr.
• Your dream superpower? Invisibility

That’s it for this edition of Staff Spotlight! Stay tuned for our next feature as we continue to showcase the people who make Bond Wolfe a success.