James Hardy 

Deputy managing director, CCS Media

Which tech figurehead do you admire the most?

At the moment, I would have to say Dion Weisler for the pro-channel and focused approach he has created at HPI (post-split), which is clearly paying off. Also, his clarity and jargon-free way of communicating is refreshing. 

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

There isn't one overbearing challenge facing the industry, just lots of small challenges (opportunities) that face organisations at contrasting stages of their life-cycle. If anything, the industry over talks challenges. 

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

In the interest of light heartedness, I will stick with a sports themed dinner: Vincent O'Brien, Sir Matt Busby and Muhammad Ali.

How has 2017 been for you?

2017 has been a cracking year! The CCS Media team have really performed well (again) this year and the business continues to be enjoyable. Family life with my wife and two children is always fantastic.

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

I don't think I have ever really had an overly extravagant business lunch. 

Which global city best matches your personality?

Barcelona.

What would be your super-hero power?

The ability to fit more activities in to the same amount of time.

Complete this sentence. The worst thing about our rivals is…they don't always treat their employees, customers and suppliers as well as we treat ours. This reflects badly on our industry. 

What makes you nervous?

The thought of spending any amount of time on a boat!

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

Pasta. Pasta dishes.

Sum up the channel in three words

Valuable for customers.

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