Weisz, Joe

A-LIST 2005

Company: Kerio Technologies UK.

Job title: Channel sales manager UK and Ireland.

Place of birth: England.

Year of birth: 1957.

Marital status: Married.

Career highlights: Worked for HM Forces, the Royal Artillery and Royal Marines, then NCR, Digital and Olivetti. Founder member of security distributor First Defence, and now at Kerio.

What do you love most about the IT industry? The fast pace and ever-changing, challenging environment. The constant and growing demand for higher standard of product and services.

Which company do you most admire or respect in the IT business? Apple, because it is focused, innovative and ruthless. And, of course, Kerio.

Which individual do you most admire or respect in the IT business? Too many to list. The industry draws players of the highest calibre.

What is the biggest technology trend you anticipate in the next 12 months? Voice over IP, probably a real surprise new kid on the block.

What is the one thing working in the technology industry has taught you? Turn the handle smarter, not just faster.

Where do you think the channel will be in five years time? Most things in the industry are cyclical so I think we will be coming around again, but with higher standards and bigger challenges.

Which do you think is the most influential vendor in the UK? Dell, Apple and Microsoft, but for very different reasons.

Which do you think is the most influential ISV in the UK? There are a number running neck and neck.

Which vendor's technology do you think has changed the face of IT? Hate to admit it, but it has to be Microsoft.

How do you unwind or spend your spare time? Keeping fit, running and in the gym. Cooking good food and buying good wine (and drinking it). Travelling, photography - with real film, not digital. Reading, and watching films.

Where is your favourite place to eat? At home.

What is your favourite drink? Depends on the mood, but often red wine.

What is your favourite TV programme or film? 24.

Who is your favourite musician, band, artist or genre? Chris Isaak.

What is your favourite book? Shogun by James Clavell.

What career would you have pursued if you hadn't worked in the channel? Something dark and disreputable.

What has been your greatest business achievement? Still being in the industry and staying sane - almost.

What is your personal ambition? Too many to list. Keep reaching.