Managing director, Capita Technology Solutions
What is your greatest career move to date?
My first appointment as chief executive. It was and still is a fast learning curve, although thoroughly enjoyable and satisfying. It was good to know that someone had confidence in me and that I could move onto the next level in my career. I most certainly learn something new every single day in the role.
What is top of your bucket list?
Fly a jet aircraft around the Promenade Des Anglais in Nice and land at Nice Airport.
What has changed most since you started working in the channel?
Gross margins. The Wild West early days were incredible. Good money can still be made, but you have to work harder to get it.
How do you think Brexit is going to affect the channel?
I think Brexit is going to be a great example of creating your own luck. There will be new, unexpected opportunities to which we will need to adapt quickly to be able to take advantage. And without doubt it encourages the entrepreneur. For example, I expect the SME and UK leisure, travel and manufacturing sectors to blossom as more people begin to buy British. I also believe it will be a compelling factor for greater cloud adoption as businesses seek to move from capex to opex spending.
What is your least favourite task during the working day? Email. Enough said.
How has 2016 been for you?
Enjoyable. Challenging. Rewarding. Progressive.
What major issues will the channel face in 2017?
The opponents of Brexit will need to join forces with the Brexiters for the UK to redefine itself and thrive as a nation again. In-fighting will be the single biggest factor to slow or dull our future success.
