Derek Jones

Advisor to the Board, Synaxon

What was your dream career as a child?

My first plan was to be a professional sailing instructor; this was closely following by joining the Royal Navy.

What has been your personal highlight of 2019?

Seeing Synaxon central purchasing and CSP systems delivering results for the channel.

Which famous person deserves a (gentle) slap?

About half of our politicians but especially Jeremy Corbyn - what a muppet.

What two things (apart from family) would you grab if your house was on fire?

I would certainly start with my mobile phone followed by a good coat, both for practical reasons.

Which of your 2019 predictions have come to pass?

That I would step down from the position of MD at Synaxon UK.

What TV show have you binge watched this year?

It's not something I would ever do under any circumstances. I don't know how people find the time.

How has 2019 been from a business perspective?

With all of the uncertainty around Brexit, I think it has been a difficult year for all.

What annoys you most about your commute?

Nothing at all: no long drives, no trains, boats or planes.

If you could witness one past event, what would it be?

VE Day - May 1945 in London. After all of the unbelievably difficult years, people actually got a chance to celebrate and look forward to the future.

How do you explain the channel to people?

In broad brushstroke terms, the route to market for technology products and services.

What have been your favourite and least favourite partner conference destinations?

An invitation to South Korea with Samsung tops all and I don't really have a least favourite location or conference. I think we should always get something out of every conference or networking opportunity.

What is the biggest challenge facing the channel in 2020?

It has to be the unpredictability of the UK economy post-Brexit, developing a winning strategy in a volatile and uncertain market is incredibly difficult.