Group chief operating officer, Exclusive Networks Group
Career so far
Having worked in a variety of IT roles, I decided to set up my first business, co-founding Data Connectivity back in the early 1990s, which we subsequently sold to Datrontech Group. Another two successful ventures followed - equIP Technology, which we sold to Matrix, and VADition, which was acquired by Exclusive Networks Group.
What was your first job and were you any good at it?
I was a hod carrier. I was OK when the hod was empty but when the bricks were added I was very average.
Who was your top teenage pin-up?
My history teacher, but there was no future in it...
My colleagues won't know this about me but...
I've always wanted to play a musical instrument but unfortunately I'm tone deaf.
What is your favourite snack?
Maynards Wine Gums.
What has been your career high point to date?
Successfully building three distribution companies and achieving profitable exits.
Has 2013 been good, bad or ugly?
It's been a really good year, continuing our aggressive business growth as well as adding some new disruptive technologies into our portfolio that will hopefully fuel future growth.
What do you say when asked at a party what you do for a living?
Depending on the company I am in it can vary from airline pilot to IT to many others.
If I wasn't working in the channel I would probably be...
Too old to change now but would have liked to have been involved in sports management.
What will be the channel's biggest challenge in 2014?
Be in tune with the market, understand customer needs, stay relevant and keep adding value.
