Paul Cubbage

Managing director, Target Components

What is your greatest career move to date?

I haven't had many moves and the last was years ago. I'm lucky that they all worked out well, but Target was clearly the best one.

What is top of your bucket list?

I haven't got one. Top of my bucket list is to make a bucket list.

What has changed most since you started working in the channel?

The role of independent retailers - they've had to become much more multifaceted. And the emergence of online.

How do you think Brexit is going to affect the channel?

Since nobody knows what Brexit actually means (other than Theresa May, who helpfully points out it means Brexit), we'll have to wait and see. In the meantime, we'll have a period of uncertainty that suits nobody.

What is your least favourite task during the working day?

Every day's different, so I don't particularly have a task I don't look forward to. Anything that feels like pointless admin would be dullest. Dealing with problems can be toughest but also most rewarding. If I could change anything, I'd spend more time with customers - that's where you get the best understanding of how we can really make a difference.

If you were an animal, what would you be?

One of our dogs. They've got the life of Riley.

If you won the big one on EuroMillions, what would you do?

It'd be a shock as I've never done it.

What is your worst habit?

A year or so back I could have said smoking, but since I'm down to one a day that doesn't really count. Prevaricating on questions about bad habits, probably.

How has 2016 been for you?

Mixed. Another record year for Target, but Bolton were relegated.

If you didn't work in the IT channel, what would be your dream career?

Not a clue. Years ago I thought I'd make a decent author, so I had a go at writing a novel and soon realised I wouldn't.

What major issues will the channel face in 2017?

The economy will be the biggest factor. What happens with consumer confidence and business spend, if and when interest rates start to rise, impact of the Brexit vote. It could be a very tough year for anyone already struggling, so we're likely to see further consolidation and potentially some high-profile casualties.

• Tweet  
• Facebook  
• LinkedIn  
• Send to  

• Topics
• Distributor
• A-list 2017(b)