Mike Dowson

Commercial director, Trust Systems

What achievement are you most proud of?

Building a new team, which has executed our strategy, exceeding our growth and profit targets.

What has been the biggest change in the channel since you started working in it?

The absolute need to grow recurring revenues to maintain a stable and profitable business.

What three things could you not live without?

1. Enterprise-class internal systems to maintain our business information, thus ensuring we are making the right decisions. 2. Mobile communications/smartphone. This is not a 9-5 business. We need to be connected inside and outside office hours, whether that's in the UK or overseas. 3. Efficient partner supply chains. These ensure we are seen as the professional business we are.

What has been your most embarrassing moment so far?

Getting it seriously wrong with one recruitment earlier this year. A never to be repeated experience.

What do your family think you do all day?

Wine, dine and play golf.

Who is your ultimate celeb crush?

I cannot say, but she would have me "spinning around".

What is your guilty pleasure?

Great wine.

What would be your first act if you were made Prime Minister?

Get everyone who is able to, working. Anyone receiving financial state assistance would be asked to contribute something back to society.

Has 2015 been a good, bad or ugly year?

A fantastic year. Working with people you trust and enjoy the company of makes for a wonderful business environment.

If you didn't work in the IT channel, what would you do?

Work in the wine industry.

What major issues will the channel face in 2016?

I'm not one to think about or focus on issues. I would rather concentrate on the opportunities and deal with positives. There will always be something negative but it's best to steer your course towards something you can do, rather than something you cannot.