Practice director - security, MTI Technology
Career so far
I started with a career working as a lawyer before moving into IT. In 1996 I founded an organisation (Global Secure Systems), which was acquired by MTI in July 2011 to become The MTI Security Practice. We are now moving the Security Practice into the next stage of growth across Europe; Germany first, France to follow.
What was your first job and were you any good at it?
I was a washer up in a kitchen. They didn't keep me for very long. I am not sure if that was any reflection on my work.
Who was your top teenage pin-up?
Katherine Ross, if anyone can remember Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. It was almost enough to make you take up cycling.
My colleagues won't know this about me but...
I still watch Coronation Street, after being brainwashed by a girlfriend from Bolton many years ago. I am not sure what my wife's excuse is - she is from Plymouth.
What is your favourite snack? It has to be cheese and onion crisps. Maybe a peanut or two on the side.
What has been your career high point to date?
For work, building a great team of people around me. For play, winning the Liverpool Grand Prix of the Sea.
Has 2013 been good, bad or ugly?
2013 has been exciting to date, as we expand our business into Germany. Having never worked in Europe I am really looking forward to learning about markets and working with a different culture.
What do you say when asked at a party what you do for a living?
I sell IT stuff. But at least I am not a recruitment consultant!
If I wasn't working in the channel I would probably be... playing in the Channel, the English Channel, racing a powerboat.
What will be the channel's biggest challenge in 2014?
I think the challenge remains the same - knowing what clients think they want and need as opposed to what they really need. There is often a large delta between the two.
