Ledger, Neil

A-LIST 2005

Company: Equip Technology.

Job title: Director.

Place of birth: Guildford.

Year of birth: 1957.

Marital status: Married.

Career highlights: Building two profitable distribution companies and selling them within four years of inception.

What do you love most about the IT industry? The people (although there is not as much fun as in the 80s and 90s).

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

Which individual do you most admire or respect in the IT business? Individuals who are prepared to take a risk in starting their own business.

What is the biggest technology trend you anticipate in the next 12 months? The security space will continue to grow and consolidate, with a focus towards LAN-based security. Compliance will also drive the uptake of new technology.

What is the one thing working in the technology industry has taught you? Patience, and making sure I am out of the office on the last day of the quarter.

Where do you think the channel will be in five years time? Further consolidation will continue. However, I don't believe the channel will be dead as some are predicting.

Which do you think is the most influential vendor in the UK? Microsoft and Cisco.

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

How do you unwind or spend your spare time? Spending time with family and friends. Playing golf.

Where is your favourite place to eat? The Beach House, Marbella.

What is your favourite drink? Guinness.

What is your favourite TV programme or film? Any sporting programme.

Who is your favourite musician, band, artist or genre? Michael Buble.

What is your favourite book? Anything by Jack Higgins.

What career would you have pursued if you hadn't worked in the channel? Who knows? That was 25 years ago.

What has been your greatest business achievement? Working for and helping to start Data Guardian, Data Connectivity and Equip.

What is your personal ambition? To be healthy and happy.