Hughes, Mark

A-LIST 2005

Company: IBM UK.

Job title: Channel development manager.

Place of birth: London.

Year of birth: 1963.

Marital status: Divorced.

Career highlights: A successful career that has seen me move steadily up the ladder to a senior position with the most respected IT company in the world, from working for NatWest Bank, AST and LG to IBM.

What do you love most about the IT industry? The people and the interaction.

Which company do you most admire or respect in the IT business? Basilica.

Which individual do you most admire or respect in the IT business? Sir Peter Rigby [of SCC]

What is the biggest technology trend you anticipate in the next 12 months? The UK reseller market will be reduced by acquisitions.

What is the one thing working in the technology industry has taught you? Don't be complacent.

Where do you think the channel will be in five years time? A lot smaller, with companies needing a certain expertise to survive.

Which do you think is the most influential vendor in the UK? Hewlett-Packard.

Which do you think is the most influential ISV in the UK? SAP.

Which vendor's technology do you think has changed the face of IT? IBM.

How do you unwind or spend your spare time? Socialising and playing sports.

Where is your favourite place to eat? Langhams Brasserie in London.

What is your favourite drink? White wine.

What is your favourite TV programme or film? Only Fools and Horses.

Who is your favourite musician, band, artist or genre? Mick Hucknall and Simply Red.

What is your favourite book? Any sports biography.

What career would you have pursued if you hadn't worked in the channel? Hospitality management.

What has been your greatest business achievement? Breaking down barriers at IBM to recruit a new distributor.

What is your personal ambition? To be financially secure.