Jazzing up the performance

Playing music will likely remain key to relaxation for Stephen Mackey even after some 35 years of practice

What was your first job, and how did you get into IT?

I trained as an electronic engineer and ended up designing bits of missiles in a dingy lab somewhere in west London. I got into sales because the guys who came to sell to me had better cars and suits than I had. I entered the IT industry when I encountered my first personal computer and thought that this might be a market that could go somewhere.

What could prompt you to give it all up and join the revolution?

Most likely it would be one flight or train cancellation too many, long queues at immigration, fellow passengers with loud MP3 players, or crowded rail carriages. I could go on.

Should Prince William shave his head?

Absolutely. My hair is pretty short already but when I get a significant bald patch it will become very short, and so should William's.

If you had to choose just one leisure activity, would you choose an art or a sport?

I'd choose music. I've been playing badly for about 35 years and I'm now resigned to my lack of talent. When I play, though (probably due to lack of ability), I can't think about anything else, so it is great relaxation.

What never fails to make you laugh?

The family jokes that have built up over the years and that we think are really funny - although nobody else knows what we're all on about.

Where would you like to go or what would you like to do on your next holiday?

My new house in France will be finished soon and we will go there as much as we can this year. It's remote, quiet and beautiful.

Will there always be value in printed books and magazines?

I think printed books will always have value as objects even when the content is available in many other forms. But I'm not so sure the same could be said about magazines.

Would you rather draw up the plans, or carry them out?

My strength is in drawing up the plans but the fun is quite often in carrying them out.

What are your three greatest life accomplishments (so far)?

Firstly, having talented children and helping them to flourish - my daughter is a ballet dancer, which has had a significant impact on our lives.

Secondly, teaching myself to play jazz; and finally growing Spectra's business in Europe by 40 per cent in my first year while all of our competitors shrank.

Can politicians ever be trusted on IT?

Politicians cannot be trusted, we all know that. The situation gets much worse when they are entrusted with things they know nothing about. But that's democracy, isn't it, and the alternatives are much, much worse.

What are you reading?

I was halfway through Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist on a flight back from Athens recently, and left my Kindle on the plane. This is a problem as I am now not reading anything.

What are the traits of a perfect boss?

Trust, integrity, leadership, intelligence and a willingness to share in success. Depressingly, this combination is rarely found, I'm afraid.

Where did you get that hat?

Funnily enough, Spitalfields Market - a purple top hat my wife Elizabeth fell in love with and she looks great wearing. I, however, do not look good in a hat.

If you had your time again, what would be your next choice of career?

When I finally grow up, I want to play in a big band such as Dave Arch's on Strictly Come Dancing. They are absolutely brilliant musicians and singers and they always seem to be having a good laugh.

Steve Mackey is vice president of international business at Spectra Logic