Our Marbella People Interview today is with Kevin Whyte of CIS Ltd. Kevin and his family have been regular visitors to Spain and only recently decided to settle down in Marbella in April 2006. Kevin is Owner and Lead Consultant of CIS-Europe a firm offering security solutions including close protection, surveillance and risk assessments amongst their many services.
How long have you lived in Spain and how long is your business established?
Kevin Whyte: We finally purchased a property in Spain in April 2006 after many years of umming and ahring about it.
We were always regular visitors to Spain throughout my period of working in the Middle East but never really found “The Place” until January 2006.
Why did you choose Marbella?
Kevin Whyte: My Wife and I initially spent a lot of time looking for property in the Costa Dorada, but on another trip we were visiting friends in Marbella and decided that we really liked the area.
I’m ex Royal Navy and have always loved Gibraltar which is only a short drive away.
We visited a real-estate agent in Elvira who showed us a range of properties on the Coast and In Land. We fell in love with Alhaurin El Grande and purchased a Town House in the Centre of Town.
We like its close proximity to Marbella and Malaga but its far enough out to remain quiet when you want it.
I enjoy eating out with my family and friends in Marbella which hosts a great bunch of Restaurants and Bars.
Tell us your greatest business or personal accomplishment?
Kevin Whyte: My greatest accomplishment is to be a good Father and Husband to my Son and Wife and provide a good life for them both to live in.
On a business accomplishment level, I am proud of the services I and others like me provided various clients in Iraq whilst the rebuild of Iraq continues.
I now hope to transfer those skills with my Teams to Security Projects Worldwide.
Why would you recommend the Costa del Sol for business and Lifestyle?
Kevin Whyte: Marbella has always, in my eyes been the jewel of Spain.
It attracts people from all walks of life, Different colours and creeds make Marbella a wonderful melting pot where everybody has a different story to tell.
The Costa del Sol is a hive of activity throughout the year where as other areas of Spain basically closedown for winter.
I feel this is why many un-tourist business ventures are able to thrive in the area as there is a community here all year round.
On a lifestyle side of things, well you can’t beat it can you? I like the relaxed way of life and the attitude of people here.
If you could change one thing about Spain, what would it be?
Kevin Whyte: That’s a tough one, I love the laid back attitude of the Spanish, but having said that, an appointment is an appointment.
A man of the law should be on time at a meeting he arranged.
So timekeeping would be the one thing I’d change.
Describe yourself in 3 words.
Kevin Whyte: Loyal, Trustworthy, Friendly
What is your favourite Restaurant in Marbella?
Kevin Whyte: It’s not in Marbella, but it’s a cracking little place. Streets of London, The portions you get there would feed an Army and it’s not expensive.
What is the last film you saw at the Cinema or DVD?
Kevin Whyte: Pirates of the Caribean 2: Dead Man’s Chest. Cracking film, the adventures of Captain Jack Sparrow continue.
What advice would you give to someone moving to Spain?
Kevin Whyte: Don’t rush into it, take your time and find the place that’s right for you. Oh, I’d dabble at learning Spanish too.
Name one other business you would recommend on the Costa del Sol and why?
Kevin Whyte: Andalucian Dream Homes in Elvira. They squared us away a treat and showed us all the sights over a few trips over to Spain before we committed to purchasing a property.
Really friendly staff with whom we have become friends and remain in contact.
They have offices all over the Costa del Sol and show a professional service that is second to none.
Kevin Whyte is the Owner and Lead Consultant Combined Intelligence Services – Europe (CIS-Europe) and is based in Alhaurin el Grande with a satellite office in the UK and interests in Kenya.
Combined Intelligence Services Ltd – Security Specialists in a constantly evolving world.
CIS are a global security entity, providing everyday security solutions.
CIS are employed worldwide on operations.
Our operatives come from such backgrounds as former: UK Special Forces, Commando’s, Paratroopers and Police & Government Security Services personnel.
Please visit our website at www.cis-europe.kk5.org for further details email us on: contactcis@europe.com
Call our 24 Hour response 0044 (0)7906 689876 or Main Switchboard 0044 (0)208 123 2148
We look forward to providing your security needs, wherever it may take us.
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