SHARP SOUTAR

Apprentice interrogator Mike reveals what it takes to succeed in the show's notorious interviews and why he doesn't suffer fools 

- SALLY MCLEAN

AS ONE of Lord Sugar's feared interviewers, Scot Mike Soutar knows how crucial preparation is for The Apprentice candidates who make it to the that stage of the contest.

The businessman, who was born in Dundee and grew up in Fife, said the finalists need to have undertaken meticulous prep ahead of sitting before four of Sir Alan's trusted advisers to pitch for his £250,000 investment.

But the dad of two admitted he does exactly the same before meeting up with his co-interrogator Claude Littner - even for a night out.

Mike, who went to Glenrothes High School and is the co-founder of Shortlist Media, said: "I've spent a lot of time with Claude socially and he is the nicest man, the kindest and most generous of hosts. He has a great sense of humour. Really lovely.

"But I still always feel like I have to up my game when I see Claude, so as not to let him down. Before I meet him, even socially, I think, 'What will we talk about, what will we do here?'

"I do my prep, even though I would count him as a friend in real life. I think he would put me most on my mettle, definitely."

Mike, who is on the board of Scottish Rugby and the V&A Dundee, is one of four interviewers grilling the remaining candidates on the BBC1 show in next week's episode.