Everything is A-OK

Running half-marathons and spoiling her dog keep Alicia Shepherd busy when she's not at work

What was your first job, and how did you get into IT?

My first job was at Basingstoke train station working in one of the refreshment kiosks. My brother worked for Frontline (now TechData), drove a nice car and had a nice house and I wanted the same so dropped my CV into Micro-P and the rest is history.

Are you a cat person or a dog person?

I'm a dog person, I have a Collie cross who I adore and spoil a little bit.

What were you like in school?

Studious but a little mischievous, with a few detentions under my belt.

What is your most annoying habit?

It would depend entirely on who you asked but probably either drumming my fingers on the table or making a clicking noise with my tongue when I'm in the car - all a sign of my being bored or impatient.

What was your most important lucky break in business so far?

Every career move for me has been a good move. I'm not sure if luck played a part but in each role I've had I can honestly say I made the most of it and gave 100 per cent.

What is your biggest regret in business?

I have experienced disappointments in life but each one has taught me a lesson, the biggest lesson being that life is too short for regrets.

What is your dream holiday destination?

Italy. I have been fortunate enough to visit on a number of occasions and it is an amazing country. It has it all: great food, great wine, animated people. Interesting driving skills are required - I will never forget driving a hire car in the city of Naples.

What was the last film you saw and what did you think of it?

The Lady in the Van - I enjoyed the eccentricity of it but on reflection it's probably not a film for the big screen - more one for the comfort of your own home.

Do you read CRN in print or digital form?

Digital - it's great to access the latest channel news on the go. What are your three greatest accomplishments (so far)? Surviving four years in a North Wales village and not offending anyone. Running the Reading half marathon twice and raising money for Hope House - an amazing charity. Being on the CRN A-List for five years in a row.

What is your most overused word?

OK. I try to stop myself every time but it just rolls off my tongue. Perhaps saying it less often should be my new year's resolution.

Sweet or savoury?

Sweet - I simply cannot resist profiteroles with fresh cream.

What is your favourite motivational quote?

What we like to do next is what people tell us we can never do.

Your closest near-death experience?

A white van travelling towards me at speed on a country lane going over a humpback bridge - thank God for Audi brakes.

What are you reading?

A Passion for Success by Kazuo Inamori, the founder of Kyocera Corporation. It reminds you how to approach business with the right attitude using a simple formula: ability x effort x attitude = the result of your life.

What was the first record you bought?

Especially for You by Kylie and Jason. What are the traits of a perfect boss? Humility, fairness, honesty, integrity, and the courage to do the right thing and to lead by example.

How do you cheer yourself up when you're feeling down? Does it work?

I walk my dog or go for a run - it gives me time to breathe and reflect without any distractions.