Ben Boswell

Area vice president, Europe, Worldwide Technology

Which tech figurehead do you admire the most?

Jim Kavanaugh, chief executive of Worldwide Technology. His will to win, relentless drive for innovation, combined with his mandate for hiring the most talented people, that differentiate themselves not only by their knowledge but the way in which they approach the customer. He has an unparalleled passion for learning, a natural ability for creating market disruption and differention by embracing change. Jim inspires his team through his simple company mission, to be "a profitable, growth company, that is a great place to work". It's like a "three-legged stool" - take one leg away and it immediately falls over.

What's the biggest challenge facing the industry no-one is talking about yet?

The channel must evolve quickly to stay relevant. I believe that both customers and manufacturers are becoming frustrated with the diluted role that large global partners are playing in the wider ecosystem. Being a point of product procurement is not enough; partners need to have a point of view, deliver value quickly and be more accountable for helping customers to drive innovation to deliver faster, tangible business outcomes.

If you could invite three famous people to dinner, who would they be?

Nile Rodgers, Nelson Mandela and Robin Williams.

How has 2017 been for you?

One word: amazing. My wife and I overcame all of the odds to become proud parents to a beautiful baby girl. On the professional front, WWT won third place in the UK 2017 "Great Place to Work" awards, our global customer base continues to grow, and our European business is on track to break through the $750m mark in 2017. I am humbled to be surrounded by so many fun, inspirational friends and colleagues all around the globe.

What's the most extravagant business lunch you've ever had?

I tend not to do lunch, but enjoyed an amazing private dining experience at Mario Battelli's Babbo when I was living in New York a few years ago. There were 12 of us, and the great man cooked and curated the wine.

Which global city best matches your personality?

London - diverse, cosmopolitan, vibrant and always changing.

What would be your super-hero power?

Teleportation - so everyone could cover more ground, visit more places, solve problems and help people faster.

Complete this sentence. The worst thing about our rivals is… I don't really have an opinion here, I am focused on our people and customers.

What makes you nervous?

Pollution and waste. We are destroying the planet; there must be a different way for the population to expand. Fear of failure stifling creativity. Complacency from people or companies who do not embrace change. Businesses that lose the culture of coaching to nurture and bring through new talent.

If you could eat one type of food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I absolutely love Spanish tapas.

Sum up the channel in three words

Diverse, threatened, lethargic.