Todd McQuilkin

Chief executive, Air IT & managing partner, Air MSP

What was your dream career as a child?

I fancied myself as a professional sportsman, having played years of semi-professional indoor cricket. It wasn't to be. Funny how fate led me into the technology sector, running my own business.

What has been your personal highlight of 2019?

Extending my public speaking engagements, particularly to our local Chamber of Commerce. Sharing my family story and business experiences has been very humbling.

Which famous person deserves a (gentle) slap?

Without being dragged into the Brexit debate, it has to be John Bercow, current Speaker of the House.

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

Our bulldogs and my picture of my mum.

Which of your 2019 predictions have come to pass?

The All Blacks winning the World Cup. At time of writing it's still a prediction though!

What TV show have you binge watched this year?

I'm not really a TV binger. I did try Breaking Bad and Homeland but didn't make it past series one.

How has 2019 been from a business perspective?

Another record year for sales and EBIT, plus national exposure. We're positioned as a serious player in the UK SME space. I'm incredibly proud of what James and his leadership team have achieved in three years. He's taken the business to places I would have struggled to achieve these days.

What annoys you most about your commute?

Nothing - I love my drive to the office as it gives me some time to think and listen to my audio books. We are always learning and  there's no better way of using this time I'd otherwise be wasting!

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

The battle of Waterloo. Napoleon made some huge tactical errors which were unusual - I'd like to know why.

How do you explain the channel to people?

Read about the acronyms - MSP, MSSP, TSP, ISP, CSP. The list goes on! But it might confuse them even more.

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

I love them all - I spend quality time with my peers and vendors, listening and learning, building knowledge and taking it back to the business. One clear favourite has to be ConnectWise's annual US conference, IT Nation. It's well run, has great content and the parties are off-the-scale.

What is the biggest challenge facing the channel in 2020?

The consolidation of our market, and unrealistic expectations in business valuation when it's time for owners to de-risk.