Ballinger, Paul
A-LIST 2005
Company: Alcatel.
Job title: Sales director UK and Ireland.
Place of birth: Bradford.
Year of birth: 1965.
Marital status: Married.
Career highlights: Being in the telecoms business when BT and Mercury created the duopoly.
What do you love most about the IT industry? Its shameless front.
Which company do you most admire or respect in the IT business? Microsoft.
Which individual do you most admire or respect in the IT business? Paul Garrett.
What is the biggest technology trend you anticipate in the next 12 months? Collaboration.
What is the one thing working in the technology industry has taught you? Don't have a drink with the competition.
Where do you think the channel will be in five years time? Consolidated both at VAR and system integrator level.
Which do you think is the most influential vendor in the UK? It depends on the market.
Which do you think is the most influential ISV in the UK? It's too early to have a view.
Which vendor's technology do you think has changed the face of IT? MIcrosoft.
How do you unwind or spend your spare time? With mountain bikes, fine wine and fireworks.
Where is your favourite place to eat? Maliks Tandoori, Cookham
What is your favourite drink? Sancerre Rose.
What is your favourite TV programme or film? Seinfeld.
Who is your favourite musician, band, artist or genre? Easy listening.
What is your favourite book? A Year in the Merde.
What career would you have pursued if you hadn't worked in the channel? Air traffic control.
What has been your greatest business achievement? Staying employed.
What is your personal ambition? Be content that I am still contributing.