Commercial Director, SCC
What was the worst job you have ever had?
When at school and university I used to work on a farm. Plenty of early cold wet mornings and very long days spent in fields full of cabbages. Looking back it was a great grounding for my career.
Which actor would you pick to play you in a movie of your life?
As it would need to be a low-budget production (it's not going to have mass box office appeal) then someone cheap. Maybe the guy who played Mother Goose in our local panto last year?
What do you do as your party trick?
Something unspeakable with a glass, some Drambuie and a flame.
What is your favourite chocolate bar?
I have a real liking of all chocolate, in any form. If I had to pick one it would be a bar of Bourneville from the Cadbury factory, which is just up the road from James House.
What has been the highlight of your career to date?
I don't think there has been one highlight for me. I always feel very lucky to work in this industry and with all the people in it. My career has allowed me to experience so many things that I could never have dreamt I would do. One standout thing for me has got to be carrying the Olympic torch in London - a simply indescribable and unrepeatable experience.
Has 2014 been a good, bad or ugly year?
It's been a good year overall, but one that has led me to take some tough decisions. The industry continues to change at a rapid rate which is what keeps it interesting and 2014 has seen that pace pick up in many ways. For me as I have taken on a broader role and been part of a change agenda which has tested my personal ability and skillset.
How would you explain the IT channel to a stranger without boring them to death?
It would be easier to explain the rules of cricket to an American (ie. don't bother trying).
Aside from the channel, my dream career would be... stand-up comedian. Don't ask me why as I am not that funny.
What major issues will the channel face in 2015?
As always there will be lots of issues and challenges, but there are two that stand out for me, which are linked: 1. A shortage of the right skills - the requirements are changing; 2. Address the inequality in the gender mix of the industry. It's not right; it's a waste of skills and needs fixing.
