Managing director UK& I, Insight
What achievement are you most proud of?
Getting my first directorship in 2006 continues to be a stand-out accomplishment for me.
What has been the biggest change in the channel since you started working in it?
The rapid development of new technology and the changing landscape of the online world has changed the way we work and, for many, where we do our work from. With this, clients have grown to expect more from technology and this has driven the transformation from transactional, product-based business models to consultative, advisory models focussed on business solutions. Deep client relationships are now more essential than ever before.
What three things could you not live without?
1. Cake, because who would want to? 2. My iPhone – it has my entire life on it and means I’m always connected to what’s going on both personally and professionally. 3. An umbrella – I live in Manchester!
What has been your most embarrassing moment so far?
There are too many to mention. I’m good at tripping over in my heels or spilling coffee over unsuspecting colleagues.
What do your family think you do all day?
In the summer we held a Family Fun Day at our office in Sheffield, which I took my daughter to. There was live music, bouncy castles, face painting and lots of other fun activities – so now when she hears Mummy is off to the office, she thinks I am spending my time on the inflatables and eating hotdogs!
Who is your ultimate celeb crush?
Tom Ford.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Fish and chips with rose champagne.
What would be your first act if you were made Prime Minister?
I would create an environment where everyone is incentivised and motivated to work. It’s really important to me that people feel a sense of achievement and are well recognised.
Has 2015 been a good, bad or ugly year?
2015 has been a great year. Insight is currently on a significant transformational journey, and while change can be tough, the way my team has risen to the challenge and embraced the changes is truly phenomenal. To see the spirit and enthusiasm across the entire business means 2016 can only be better!
If you didn’t work in the IT channel, what would you do?
The dream remains! Exploring the world as a travel writer – more Condé Nast than Hitchhikers Guide though.
What major issues will the channel face in 2016?
Increasingly our clients look to technology to help them solve their business challenges and as an enabler to achieving their business goals and objectives. With this in mind it is essential that those in the channel get closer to the end users to better understand the clients environment in order to be able to provide meaningful IT solutions. This means more time spent with clients and a transformation from technology conversations to true business conversations.
