Jane Silk

Managing director, Sigma Software Distribution

Tell us something most people won't know about you

I used to run and part-own a food-led, 13th Century inn on Dartmoor.

What has been your highlight of 2018 so far?

Witnessing my highly talented marketing team get the recognition they deserve by winning two prestigious industry awards.

Who would play you in the film of your life?

Emma Thompson - she has successfully managed to stand the test of time which is no mean feat for a female actor. She knows her own mind, voices her opinions effectively but doesn't take herself too seriously.

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

I really don't want to single out one particular company but I do admire some of the older tech firms that have been able to anticipate change in the market, adapt their customer offering to ensure they remain relevant while at the same time re-shaping their organisational structure to support change.

What is your guiltiest pleasure?

Jaffa Cakes and a good book in a totally empty house.

What is the most irritating tech buzzphrase of 2018?

‘Sticky'. It's not specifically a 2018 phrase but I hear it being used all of the time as though the concept behind the term is new.

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

Look at ways to support the regeneration of town centres across the UK as a way of improving people's sense of community.

What's the biggest untapped opportunity facing the channel?

Earlier adoption of new technologies to ensure that the channel is seen as the most important route to the end customer.

What is your most treasured possession?

Photographs of my three daughters which remind me of the impact we can all have on the future.

What do your family think you do all day?

Talk a lot.

Who has been your mentor in business?

My most constant mentor has probably been my husband, whose own career experiences in a totally different industry have enabled him to be a great sounding board for me over the years.