Graham Jones

UK country manager, Exclusive Networks UK

What was the worst job you have ever had?

I worked for a company where two senior members of staff, one above me, one below me, were having more than intercompany relations - so my job as the new sales manager was to keep the morale of the team up and the gossip to a minimum. Plus act as an agony aunt when it all went wrong.

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

It would have to be Tom Hanks. In his films he has played a variety of different characters that are fitting representation of my career.

1. Forrest Gump, Forrest Gump: Simply because he has seen the world.
2. Captain Phillips, Captain Phillips: As he protects his team when under immense pressure.
3. Captain John H. Miller, Saving Private Ryan: Brilliant leader, with a brilliant team behind him but has doubts in a mission that he doesn't quite believe in - but does it regardless because it's his duty.
4. Walt Disney, Saving Mr. Banks: An inspirational negotiator who works out what he needs to get the result he wants.

What do you do as your party trick?

I can play Great Gig in the Sky by Pink Floyd on the piano, blindfolded.

What is your favourite chocolate bar?

It has to be a Boost.

What has been the highlight of your career to date?

Taking Exclusive Networks UK through its next growth phase - it's pretty exciting.

Has 2014 been a good, bad or ugly year?

All good. The market has come back up; suppliers, vendors and partners are building new teams and everyone is optimistic about what lies ahead. So far, so good.

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

We provide the technology infrastructure that protects your bank accounts and phones - our stuff basically makes the world go around. Then I would quickly move the conversation on to football before they fall asleep.

Aside from the channel, my dream career would be... a golf pro with my own golf club and have members that are good, fun people. I'd also be able to play at least six times a week - bonus.

What major issues will the channel face in 2015?

I always say it, but proving RoI, getting and keeping good staff and managing to maintain the growth rate and clear USPs. Always keep these three things in your head - tangible value, differential and maintaining growth - it's that simple.