Lockie, Steve

A-LIST 2005

Company: Computer 2000 [C2000].

Job title: Managing director.

Place of birth: Hamilton, Scotland.

Year of birth: 1966.

Marital status: Married.

Career highlights: Grew and developed Tech Data Middle East business for five years until 2004. Responsible for the C2000 networking, servers and storage business for two years and awarded CRN Networking Distributor of Year award after one year. Two years as product marketing manager for Azlan, signed Cisco, Wellfleet and Synoptics to further establish leading presence in UK Networking distribution.

What do you love most about the IT industry? The pace of the industry and constant change. It's a close-knit community and a dynamic, fast-maturing environment.

Which company do you most admire or respect in the IT business? I believe Acer's meteoric growth in the past few years has been a phenomenal achievement.

Which individual do you most admire or respect in the IT business? My original mentor, Brian Eliot, the ex-marketing director of Azlan. He led and taught by example and hands-on experience.

What is the biggest technology trend you anticipate in the next 12 months? Integrated PDA devices and multimedia content.

What is the one thing working in the technology industry has taught you? You are only as good as your people.

Where do you think the channel will be in five years time? Still an integral part of the end-user buying experience. And let's not forget that Dell is one of those channel players.

Which do you think is the most influential vendor in the UK? Of course, Microsoft and Intel continue to drive the market.

Which do you think is the most influential ISV in the UK? Sage continues to develop its markets in a no-nonsense way.

Which vendor's technology do you think has changed the face of IT? It has to be Cisco. Connecting PCs together was one of my first jobs, and connecting the multimedia enterprise is where it's at today.

How do you unwind or spend your spare time? Spending time with my family. The work days are long and I really value my weekend family time.

Where is your favourite place to eat? On the rooftop of the Hilton Dubai Creek on Valentine's night.

What is your favourite drink? I'm afraid it's that old favourite of a cold, refreshing beer.

What is your favourite TV programme or film? On TV, Ray Mears, and Michael Palin did some great shows.

Who is your favourite musician, band, artist or genre? My iPod is crammed with all sorts. Afro Celt Sound System is a regular.

What is your favourite book? Allen Carr's Easy Way to Stop Smoking.

What career would you have pursued if you hadn't worked in the channel? I was in IT working for end-users. Business analysis and process has always been a key interest.

What is your single greatest business achievement so far? Leading the growth of our Middle East business was a fantastic life-changing experience.

What is your personal ambition? Nothing more than being happy, content and growing old with my family.