Richard Lockey

UK country manager, Crayon

Which tech figurehead do you admire the most?

Elon Musk. He drives new business models and has a very ‘genuine' approach to business…albeit a very ambitious approach.

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

I think the biggest challenge is going to be a shortage of skills. While the topic has been discussed, the speed of evolution and lack of professional and structured qualifications in many instances is frightening and I don't think the full implications have hit home yet.

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

George Best, James Dean and Sir Winston Churchill.

How has 2017 been for you?

Very positive and great to have a clear vision ahead. The team has uncovered some very good opportunities and we have a strong presence in the market.

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

I wouldn't class myself as an extravagant type of guy. The most extravagant lunches I have had in my career have probably been in Rules or Scott's - both in London. My colleagues would say that extravagant for me is lunch at Vicarage Road (home of Watford FC) in the corporate box - although more often than not, I would leave disappointed with the outcome.

Which global city best matches your personality?

New York. Energetic and enthusiastic - it always has lots of different things to explore and do to keep me occupied.

What would be your super-hero power?

The ability to see into the future.

Complete this sentence. The worst thing about our rivals is... when they claim to be customer centric but are not.

What makes you nervous?

Knowing that there are so many organisations who still ignore software consumption and don't realise the consequences. It's a similar feeling I get when I watch my kids playing - they have no fear!

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

I'm afraid it would be a curry.

Sum up the channel in three words

A crowded market.