Mirko Barth is a specialist in orthodontics based at The Parade in Cardiff, part of the highly successful James Hull Group. Mirko took time out from training at St Mellons Country Club to talk to City Life about his life, family and career.

Where do you live?
Between Cardiff and Newport

Are you married?
Yes, to Ines, a specialist dental paediatrician. We’ve been together for 23 years!

Do you have any children?
Yes, I have three beautiful daughters; Carolin, 22, Saskia, 12, and Ann-Lena, 7.

Tell us about your early years
I was born in Dessau 100km from Berlin and was brought up in the countryside (Thuringia). My father worked as an engineer and my mother made the drawings for the constructors. I went to school for twelve years, did my A levels and studied dentistry in Donezk (Ukraine). At the time this was like receiving an award to represent my country abroad.

I was trained as a specialist orthodontist in GDR for four to five years. After the wall came down I opened my own clinic which was very successful, but I wanted to do different things, so I went to Botswana and worked there for two years as both a specialist orthodontist and a general dentist. It was a great experience working with the people and I very much enjoyed the job itself.

In 2003 I returned to Europe and registered with the General Dental Council, first as a dentist, then as specialist orthodontist.

Since September 2004, I’ve been working within the James Hull Group and have helped build up four practices in Bassaleg, Canton, Gear and Tredegar.

How long have you been at The Parade?
I started to work at The Parade in October 2007, and since then I have successfully built up the orthodontic side of the practice.

Describe your best qualities?
I am a determined and responsible person. I listen to people and am always interested in their progress as patients and individuals. I like to learn new things and I enjoy a challenge. I’m respectful, accurate and precise and strive for perfection in my work.

If you weren’t doing what you’re doing now, what would be your dream job?
I’d be a researcher.

What was the happiest moment in your life?
The birth of my girls Carolin, Saskia and Ann-Lena.

How do you juggle the work/life balance?
At the moment not at all. There is a huge imbalance towards my work.

What do you do to relax?
I enjoy sports. I visit the gym and play squash. I also enjoy reading and enjoy spending time at our cottage in the German countryside.

Where do you see yourself in ten years’ time?
Anywhere in the world, eventually playing with my grandchildren. I’d also like the time to build kits.

What do you feel is your greatest achievement to date?
Having a wonderful family.

What’s your philosophy on life?
Respect everyone... live and let live.

“I like to learn new things and I enjoy a challenge.”