A sporting chance
King Nigel the First - Nigel Seddon to you and me - would move his family into Windsor Castle, then turn the grounds into a stadium
What was your first job, and how did you get into IT?
I was a barman in an American-themed cocktail bar, and I ended up spending all my wages on drink. At the time, IT seemed like a solid career path and one to stop me spending everything I earned on alcohol - as I was told if you got far enough, you'd be given it free of charge.
Planes, trains or automobiles?
Planes, for the simple reason there is no road traffic.
What could prompt you to give it all up and join the revolution?
If I won the lottery! Slight problem: I need to buy tickets more than once a year.
In my dreams...
...my drop-kick in the last few seconds of the Rugby World Cup would win the final by three points.
What was the best business trip or junket you have ever experienced?
When I went to San Francisco. We hired two boats and sailed around the bay where we were picked up by helicopter, and taken to Napa Valley for dinner.
Oranges or bananas?
Oranges. Bananas always seem to rot in my bag.
What has been your toughest moment at work so far, and how did you resolve the situation?
We had a pipe explode on the top floor of the building, causing water to flood the men's toilets. I had to act as head toilet attendant
for the day.
Do you or have you read Channelweb.co.uk on your mobile phone or other handheld device?
No, I haven't, actually. I prefer to read websites and large documents on a bigger screen because you get a much better experience.
Would you rather draw up the plans, or carry them out?
I'd prefer to draw up plans - my personal strength is my ability to think strategically.
Is it wrong to tell little white lies? If not, under what circumstances?
Yes, because they always come back to haunt you. They can snowball and affect you later on.
What is the best way to get UK plc growing again?
Get companies to start thinking and planning long term and hold their course even when there are bumps along the way. So often I have seen short-term savings that in the future become a cost again.
What is one thing you miss from being a kid that you no longer do or can do?
My mother's cooking; I can't cook to save my life.
What are you reading?
Bernard Cornwell's books - I enjoyed history at school and he writes a lot of historical fiction.
If you were king, what would you do first?
If I were king, I would move all my family and friends into Windsor Castle, and then turn the grounds into a sport stadium.
Which is more important: loyalty or morality?
Loyalty. Actually, morality. No, I can't decide.
Where did you get that hat?
Is that a song by Joe Sullivan?
Golf is a good walk wasted. Discuss!
I completely agree. I love most sport, but I'd rather watch paint dry than play golf.
Are IT skills shortages best filled by on-the-job training or formal education (such as at a university)?
University builds a good platform, but training on the job exposes you to issues and makes you react in a totally different way. Both are important, so programmes such as sandwich courses are really helpful.
If you had your time again, what would be your next choice of career?
Sports coach. Having played a lot of sport, it would be my ultimate job.
Nigel Seddon is regional director for Europe at LANDesk