Clive Hailstone

Managing director, Comstor UK&I

Tell us something most people won't know about you

The showman in me once took the spotlight in the multi-Oscar winning Chariots of Fire. Others may choose to remember that I was simply one among scores or extras. I wonder if David (Puttnam) recalls…

What has been your highlight of 2018 so far?

It must be acquiring a weekend bolt-hole in need on renovation in the much-underrated Weymouth. A perfect way to detach yourself from the stresses and strains of the week.

Who would play you in the film of your life?

I always thought Hugh Jackman would make a great Clive. However, there's a picture of me in the late 1970s where I bear an uncanny resemblance to Napoleon Dynamite.

Which tech firm (other than your own!) do you most admire?

Cisco. An unwavering commitment to the channel and pioneers in technical innovation to make the world a better place.

What is your guiltiest pleasure?

Guilt is not something I do. I'm very happy with pure indulgence, albeit sometimes accompanied with a tinge of regret.

What is the most irritating tech buzzphrase of 2018?

‘AI'. It can be irritating beyond comprehension when it gets tacked on to anything to imply vast superiority. All without any explanation of what and why.

What would be your first act if you were made Prime Minister?

I'm a pretty tolerant type, but the one thing that affects us all and gets my goat big time is littering and fly-tipping. Form the National Litter Squad, flog all offenders, compulsory custody and 21st Century stocks. There's simply no need to despoil our precious world.

What's the biggest untapped opportunity facing the channel?

The realisation that sales is not everything. Customer delight is. There are enormous opportunities within the installed base to widen and deepen technology usage that adds real-value and strength to a customer relationship. Customer success is key to become a trusted adviser (there's another irritating phrase!).

What is your most treasured possession?

My 1978 Triumph Spitfire. A true classic that reminds you of what motoring pleasure was like in a pre-sanitised age. We've been together through thick and thin since 1989 - ‘til death us do part. Worryingly it's probably in better shape than me mechanically.

What do your family think you do all day?

The kids used to be of the mindset that I spent the day rooting around for unwanted food and cakes. Guess I used to recap the day's results when I got in. I'd like to think they realise I inspire, coach and mentor - giving context to cakes in the workplace!

Who has been your mentor in business?

I've had many people I admire for many reasons in my career to date. At the heart of everything though is my inspirational wife and family. Realising what's important to us all, in all our offices, is very grounding and fuels the desire to learn, improve and deliver not just for me, but everyone I have a responsibility for.