Abdul Terry
Business development director, Quadnet
Career so far Predominately in sales and marketing within dynamic companies such as Rank Xerox, Demon Internet and Equanet.
Do you care about green IT? Yes, I think it is something that we should all care about - social responsibility. On top of that there is money to be made if you get your message right to the right customer, especially local government.
If you could be in a rock/pop band, which one would it be and who would you be? I'm not really into rock and pop!
What is the best corporate jolly you have ever been on/taken partners on? Las Vegas. I absolutely loved it and it was my first time there. We did a lot of excursions including the Stratosphere, Grand Canyon, and helicopter ride. It was simply brilliant and well organised (organised by my team at Equanet!).
Has 2009 been as bad as everyone said it would be? It has definitely been a huge challenge. I think it has, and still will, weed out those that have not got their act together in terms of business process, sales, marketing and finance. However, there are promising signs that things are starting to pick up - but hard work must be put in.
Have any of your predictions come true this year? Yes, HP going more direct and losing the plot with channel business, reseller mergers/acquisitions and the increased focus on the basics of selling to trade out of this recession.
What do you see as the channel's biggest challenge in 2010? Maintaining the customer's perception we are adding value to their organisation. In essence, maintaining the key account/business partner relationship while shutting the door on more aggressive competitors.
What is the best part of your day? Going home and seeing my lovely wife and son! How cheesy is that?!