Jason Dance
Managing director, Big Technology
What was the worst job you have ever had? During the school holidays, I helped my dad clean out the local drains. Imagine my surprise when I found more than just dirty water. I was also taught how to stand out of the way of the backdraft, because if I didn't, there is only one word that would describe me: smelly.
Which actor would you pick to play you in a movie of your life?
It would have to be Jason Statham. My wife is always telling me that I love action, adventure and fast cars, so Jason would be the perfect fit. We both have no hair and my wife loves us both.
What do you do as your party trick?
I have two: I can fit three doughnuts in my mouth at the same time, although that didn't go down well with the girls. I'm also an awesome dancer - well, I think so anyway.
What is your favourite chocolate bar?
Lindt's Excellence 70% Chocolate.
What has been the highlight of your career to date?
When Exclusive Networks Group bought VADition. Having been with VADition from the beginning, it was a fantastic feeling to know that I had been a part of its growth and its ultimate success.
Has 2014 been a good, bad or ugly year?
2014 has been an excellent year. Our first financial year is looking very healthy, we are seeing our core messages coming together and the industry is responding well to us. Whereas a year ago we had to work at getting resellers interested, now they are coming to us.
How would you explain the IT channel to a stranger without boring them to death?
A series of partnerships that work together to grow their collective revenues.
Aside from the channel, my dream career would be...
a Formula 1 racing driver. Who wouldn't? You get to travel the world, drive racing cars at their design pinnacle, and you get paid considerable sums to do it.
What major issues will the channel face in 2015?
We will continue to see the consolidation of the datacentre throughout 2015. Software is the new hardware, so the value for resellers will continue to shift to the software layer, as the integration of different virtual applications becomes an increasing challenge for businesses. Resellers will need to consider how this software is purchased by their customers, with considerations such as a pay-as-you-grow model likely to feature more heavily in the future.
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