Laura Bouchard

Channel sales director, Microsoft

Which tech figurehead do you admire the most?

Predictably, Satya Nadella! Having worked with many egos for many years, I feel so fortunate to work for a company where our leader is so humble and focuses on people, culture and making a difference.

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

The talent/skills gap - it is being talked about but not enough, in my opinion. The world is changing faster than we can keep up and the opportunity is vast so needing skills is vital. Focusing on developing the talent pool early in their career, specifically getting girls into STEM, needs more effort now.

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

Margaret Thatcher, Alan Turing and Michael Jackson - I'm not sure at the same time!

How has 2017 been for you?

An exciting year of lots of change both in the market and with partners. There is lots of uncertainty ahead with Brexit round the corner, but similarly lots of opportunity and an overwhelming desire from customers to digitally transform.

Which global city best matches your personality?

Barcelona or Miami - both are warm and fun.

What would be your super-hero power?

To be able to stop time - it is so precious and there's not enough of it.

What makes you nervous?

President Donald Trump.

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

It would be pretty boring, but perhaps a breakfast buffet as that could include a wide variety of foods.

Sum up the channel in three words

Transforming, consolidating, energetic.