Sacha Lord-Marchionne

For the past 15 years, Hale-born Sacha Lord-Marchionne has pushed the boundaries in reinventing Manchester nightlife. Having put Manchester firmly back on the map since the closure of the Hacienda, the ’30-something’ nightime entrepreneur, contrary to popular belief, does seem to have a soft side...

Morning routine: I always start the day by just opening my left eye for some reason, before dragging myself to the espresso machine, then getting back into bed until the caffeine kicks in – accompanied by Sky News. Depending on my mood, I try to start the day with a 30-minute jog. I never have breakfast until I arrive at the office. I’m really into my porridge at the moment! 

Favourite childhood memory: My last day at school. I went to Manchester Grammar. The school was great, the teachers were great – but sadly, enriching my intellect was not number one on my agenda. I seemed to spend more of my time within the grounds of the nearby girls’ school. 

Best advice your mother gave you: Stop smoking. I’ve not had a ciggy in 11 months; also, never pick your nose in public. 

Are you currently in a relationship? I have many great relationships. I must speak to my mum at least twice a day, and have quite a few good friends. Does that answer your question? 

Are you in a ‘relationship’ relationship? Have you just developed a stutter? 

It seems you eat, sleep and breathe The Warehouse Project: I do, but I am lucky that I have two business partners to help with the burden of stress.  

Any other business interests? I own a security company, supplying security to other clubs and bars. The Warehouse Project has also just launched a two-day festival, which takes place in Platt Fields Park for 15,000 people a day (11/12 June). We also own a shareholding of a festival in Cumbria called Kendal Calling. It’s a three-day camping festival for 10,000 a day. 

Your inspirations: I’m inspired every day by people I meet. I don’t have a role model as such, but I do have an unhealthy obsession with Morrissey and David Bowie; bizarrely, even Lady Gaga has more recently raised an eyebrow, but only slightly. 

Best part of your business: Seeing thousands of arms in the air – all synchronised – all enjoying a moment of euphoria, and knowing I played a part in that creation. 

Worst part of your business: Driving home from work as people are going to work! It does tend to attract fair-weather friends as well – it’s amazing how many friends you seem to have before a show. 

I can imagine you have a big social circle: Just the opposite – you could count my true friends on your fingers. To be honest, I’m quite antisocial. A perfect night off for me would be an hour in the gym, a double session of Corrie and a plateful of sushi! 

Pet hate: Drugs. I’m very antidrugs. I know it goes on in the world, especially in my business sector, but I just don’t get it. I feel high as a kite after two cans of Red Bull! 

Something people don’t know about you: I get bored very quickly and have a short attention span. My close friends suggest I suffer from OCD a bit too. 

Do you think you have a bit of OCD in you? No, can you straighten your tie please? 

Proudest achievement: It hasn’t happened yet, but I think it’s very close. 

How do you relax? By spending time with my son. Okay, he isn’t a son – he’s a dog. A cheeky little pug called Stronzo. I’m also fortunate to have a gym at home – it’s a great way to get rid of stress and tension. 

Saddest moment of 2010: My grandpa passing away, which was very unexpected.  

Happiest moment of 2010: Ask me in December!  

Anything else to add: I’m proud to be a Manc, Alex Ferguson is a god, my favourite colour is black, I’ve never had a full pint of beer, and I’m allergic to cats. Will that do?