Ben Boswell

Vice president, Europe, World Wide Technology

Tell us something most people won't know about you

I crossed the Southern Ocean on an Icebreaker to get to Antarctica. It was the longest 48 hours of my life - exchanged for one of the greatest experiences.

What has been your highlight of 2018 so far?

Watching the world through the eyes of my 17-month-old daughter, watching her be curious, fearless, learn every day and above all bring joy and a smile to everyone she meets.

Who would play you in the film of your life?

Jon Snow from Game of Thrones. 1) Who would not want to be played by Jon Snow? 2) Winter is coming...

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

I am interested in the way that Nvidia is transforming its value proposition to underpin AI in a variety of forms and pushing processing power out to the edge.

What is your guiltiest pleasure?

A bottle of Ridge Monte Bello.

What is the most irritating tech buzzphrase of 2018?

The ‘Connected…(fill in the gap)…cow/car/crop'. Many seem to be science projects at the moment; the big question is how we take them mainstream to change people's lives and deliver true, measurable business value that exponentially moves either the top or bottom line.

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

I would go back and ask the people of the UK if they wanted to make a more informed decision on Brexit. If we voted out again, it would have my 100 per cent support, but if we opted to stay put, it would be the most historic moment of our generation.

What's the biggest untapped opportunity facing the channel?

Helping global enterprises to drive digital transformation through the adoption and implementation of global software agreements. There are millions of corporate dollars being wasted by firms who cannot connect the dots between the two - software becomes shelf ware, while true consumption billing and agility is not often realised.

What is your most treasured possession?

My eclectic collection of electronic and soul music (records and MP3s) built up over the last 25 years.

What do your family think you do all day?

I have been trying to convince them that I work for MI5 and my business card is 007. Sadly they do not believe me.

Who has been your mentor in business?

Many, but in particular, Phil Styrlund who is CEO of the Summit Group has really helped me grow into the leadership role I proudly sit in today. He has encouraged me and given me confidence to develop my own personal brand of leadership. He has taught me the importance of inclusion, patience and fostering young talent by giving them the platform to take a shot at big things.