If Aad Dekkers were on the throne, a typically British taste in humour and a positive attitude would ensure global success
What was your first job, and how did you get into IT?
I was an engineer at International Computers (now known as Fujitsu). Working in IT was a natural progression from my childhood days, as I have always had an interest in electronics and computing.
What is your favourite joke or the one you heard most recently?
Practical jokes, specifically those that take place on April Fool's Day. In 2011, a Dutch zoo said its polar bear would be painted blue. It invited people to come and watch the painting of the bear on 1 April - and of course people came.
What was the best business trip or junket you have ever been on?
The best was a leadership conference I was invited to during my time at NetApp; I was pleased to receive an invite and was impressed by the whole event. I also love EVault's annual Cloud-Connected Partner Conference (But why? - Ed).
If you had to choose just one leisure activity, would you choose an art or a sport?
It would have to be sport, specifically road cycling - I find it's a stress buster. When I'm cycling my mind clears and I always feel happy and relaxed afterwards.
What never fails to make you laugh?
Lots of things - I love to laugh. I am very fond of the British sense of humour, especially TV comedies. My favourite is Monty Python, and my favourite sketch is The Bridge of Death from Monty Python and the Holy Grail, but I'm a huge fan of Life of Brian too.
Will there always be value in printed books and magazines?
Yes, I still read both. I always read papers and only occasionally go online to read. I've just been on holiday and can tell you that my bag contained magazines, books and an iPad.
Would you rather draw up the plans or carry them out?
I have to say both. I like to make executable plans and the only way to know if they are a true success is to be involved in carrying them out. I'm not saying that I dominate the "carry out" part, but I do like to participate in some way.
What are the characteristics of the perfect channel partner?
The perfect partner always has its ear to the ground and is always adapting its service to meet customer needs. Change has to be in its DNA to keep it at the forefront.
If you were king or queen, what would you do first?
I would promote a positive attitude. In my kingdom, the glass would always be half full. I believe it is the negative attitudes of people that cause problems such as those we are currently experiencing with the global
economy. Trust and a positive attitude will foster recovery.
If you had your time again, what would be your next choice of career?
I am really happy where I am but there is a tiny part of me that would like to work in nature. By that, I mean working as a manager of a national park in, for example, Scotland or the New Forest.
Aad Dekkers is EMEA marketing director at EVault
