Ben Gower

Chief executive, Perspicuity

What was the worst job you have ever had

It wasn't really the worst as such, but cleaning the inside of turbochargers on ships was hot, filthy and uncomfortable. It was pretty exciting though.

Which actor would you pick to play you in a movie of your life?

I don't know; someone like Gary Oldman maybe? Because he's a gritty Brit.

What do you do as your party trick?

I make a mean Dark and Stormy (it's not that tricky): ice, rum, ginger beer and lime. Awesome.

What is your favourite chocolate bar?

I was recently sent some hand-made ones from Seattle with salt on the top - amazing.

What has been the highlight of your career to date?

In 2012 we had six new starters. We trained them in selling Office 365, did the marketing and worked closely with our partner Microsoft. Very quickly the phones began to ring, and by lunchtime we were well and truly in the Office 365 business - it was an amazing feeling.

Has 2014 been a good, bad or ugly year?

The year started quietly but we're gathering some real pace; we're 22% up on last quarter and we've just recruited another six to the team. So, all in all, it's a good year - we've really focused on what we do well and the economy is on the up. There's a lot to be happy about.

How would you explain the IT channel to a stranger without boring them to death?

I couldn't. But I'll try: we are the folks that take the boxed products and services from vendors such as HP and Microsoft and turn them into systems that our customers use to deliver business benefits. Told you I couldn't.

Aside from the channel, my dream career would be... well, I'm in my early forties, it must be time for a crisis so, off-road motorcycling tour group leader. I think that'd work for a while.

What major issues will the channel face in 2015?

Cloud is the biggest challenge. For some it will be simple and for others it really won't be.