Never say die

What was your first job, and how did you get into IT?

I was a mail clerk. I moved into IT, from the construction industry, when I joined Action Computer Supplies (now Insight).

Planes, trains or automobiles?

Trains; they are so much more relaxing. However, they are often the most expensive so I rarely get to use them.

In my dreams…

I rule the world, mwa ha ha ha ha!

What was the best business trip or junket you have ever experienced?

Sydney, Australia, for a BenQ distributor conference. They did it in style, it was a great destination, and I had great company.

If you had to choose one leisure activity, would you choose an art or a sport?

Sport. I don't get art.

Oranges or bananas?

Neither. One's a pain to peel, and the other has only a 20-minute window of perfect ripeness in which to eat it.

What would you like to do on your next holiday?

Scuba diving with my kids in the Indian Ocean. It's truly peaceful there, and I'd like to introduce my children to the underwater world. Plus, they couldn't keep up their incessant chattering while they were down there.

If someone shrank you to the size of a pencil and put you in a blender, how would you get out?

That happened to me once. I don't like to talk about it.

Will there always be value in printed books and magazines?

No. I love my books but digital is where everything is going.

Which is more important: loyalty or morality?

Loyalty, although it's a hard call. I guess morality for me has more shades of grey.

What would you like to have as your epitaph?

Martine Dodwell-Bennett, 1970-2550. Why? Why not?

Is there a long-term future for IT distribution?

Yes, but distributors have to offer more than credit and logistics if they are going to succeed.

What are your three greatest accomplishments (so far)?

My kids, friends, and a network of great colleagues. Targets come and go and achievements feel good but are short lived, but good people are always there for you.

Your closest near-death experience?

I've had finance meetings that have come close.

What are the characteristics of the perfect channel partner?

Those who are open and communicative about their aims and capabilities. With an open dialogue you can achieve anything.

What is one thing you miss from being a kid that you no longer do or can do?

Pitching up on a friend's doorstep and asking them to come and play. Apparently, people have other things to do these days.

What are you reading?

An Ordinary Man by Paul Rusesabagina. I watched the film Hotel Rwanda and wanted to learn more. It's a truly chilling first-person account of genocide that makes you realise how horrific life can be and how little the world cares.

If you were king or queen, what would you do first?

Stand down and let poor Charles have a turn.

What was the last film you saw and what did you think of it?

Never Let Me Go. A film about an alternative reality where humans are bred as transplant donors. Great concept, but not as good as the book, although few films are.

Where did you get that hat?

I look a complete numpty in a hat, so I only wear ones with specific functions. I have two: one for sport and one for sailing.

Martine Dodwell-Bennett is sales and marketing director at Steljes