Managing director, VIP Computer Centre
Which tech figurehead do you admire the most?
Jeff Bezos. How can you not admire such desire and drive to be successful, from humble beginnings to being a daily part of most lives. Like or loathe his business model, the success of it cannot be questioned.
What's the biggest challenge facing the industry no-one is talking about yet?
Hybrid models. Resellers wanting to do the job of distributors is a big issue in the UK. It will become more relevant over the next two or three years as distributors will eventually want the business back.
If you could invite three famous people to dinner, who would they be?
I don't really have three but if I could invite three to dinner it would be Margaret Thatcher for a good debate; Ricky Hatton as I loved watching him fight; and John McGinley, who was my hero as a Bolton Wanderers fan growing up.
How has 2017 been for you?
It has been a really strong year, even with the challenges that Brexit has brought. The changes in the market have meant VIP has been successful in what I would say is a pretty flat year. I don't think 2017 has been a great year for the IT industry, as we are finding with the big administration announcements we are seeing, but VIP has been able to continue to grow due to our focus on delivering our three-year growth plan.
What's the most extravagant business lunch you've ever had?
We are a hardware distributor - we do not have extravagant business lunches!
Which global city best matches your personality?
Good question! Not a city but a town. I am proud of my roots and feel I probably match up with my home town quite well. I am hardworking and fairly straight, also glum and miserable some of the time!
What would be your super-hero power?
An invisibility cloak, then you will know what people really think!
Complete this sentence. The worst thing about our rivals is… they are still here.
What makes you nervous?
My two-year-old son and an airport - I have found that mix nerve-wracking.
If you could eat one type of food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Indian cuisine. I love a good curry.
Sum up the channel in three words
Challenging, addictive, rewarding.
