Career so far I have worked in sales and vertical markets for a number of years. Previous to Avaya, I headed up the global sales and marketing for a retail technology company called Irisys. Before joining Irisys I worked for Symbol Technologies leading the EMEA region in the manufacturing sector.
If you could be anyone else for a week, who would you be and what would you do? Richard Branson has long been a professional inspiration to me. I’d spend a week experiencing his routine and also digging around to unearth some of the secrets of his success. Plus the private island in the sun coupled with a bit of space travel doesn’t sound too bad.
What would you have as your last meal? Pie and mash. But meal times are also all about the company and, for me, dinner with my wife and daughter is perfect.
What is the best corporate jolly you have ever been on/taken partners on? We took a whole team camping. Among many activities on the trip, the North versus South five-a-side football match was a highlight. I admit to missing a penalty, but it proved not to be costly as my team, the South, still won.
Away days or events like this are all about morale and experiences. Doing something that is an adventure for all and leaves a lasting memory gives a sense of achievement and satisfaction – but most of all it’s got to be fun.
Do you see the cloud as a threat or an opportunity? As with many things in life, it’s about balance. In this instance, it’s about recognising what the cloud can do for you or your business without being pulled into services or offerings that you really can’t deliver on or benefit from. Recognise the realistic potential for your business and it’s a true opportunity.
Have any of your predictions come true this year? I’ve had faith this year that, despite the financial and economic environment, the technology sector will remain strong and resilient, which so far seems to have rung relatively true. Sadly, as a Liverpool fan, a lot of my predictions have not totally come to fruition.
What do you see as the channel’s biggest challenge in 2011? Budgets and spending will continue be scrutinised. The ability to be flexible and adaptable to the needs of the customer is crucial in driving customer satisfaction and will ensure you stay nimble and keep pace as everything changes around you.
What is the best part of your day? I do my best thinking over an early morning coffee. I also find myself planning the next holiday.
