David Kay

Global business partners VP Europe, IBM

What was the worst job you have ever had?

I had a summer job at Courtaulds loading asbestos into acid to make viscose. Mole check!

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

Stan Laurel. He was a proud Lancastrian and able to make fun of himself.

What do you do as your party trick?

I am currently reviewing options as I can no longer walk on my hands or down a yard of ale in one.

What is your favourite chocolate bar?

Caramac - a rare treat.

What has been the highlight of your career to date?

I'm still waiting, but having fun on the way for 36 years.

Has 2014 been a good, bad or ugly year?

Good, bad, ugly is a typical day, but good generally; stepping up to channel transformation.

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

We try to tell a bunch of entrepreneurs what to do with vendor products - and fail miserably.

Aside from the channel, my dream career would be... a billionaire.

What major issues will the channel face in 2015?

Ongoing transition from selling product to selling as a service. This is an issue but a big opportunity; and the ongoing struggle for relevance versus direct sales, but the channel is destined to win out eventually.