Chief executive & founder, Joskos Solutions
What was your dream career as a child?
To be a ‘business man' or a stock broker so that I could one day have the same car (a Ford Capri) and mobile phone (the Motorola brick) as my uncle. I was told I was too dumb to be any of them so I pretty much gave up trying, but deep inside I knew it was possible - I didn't know how but I knew it was. Anyway, I started my first business while at school and I started trading first at 18 and then again more strategically when I had a bit more to play with! These days I spend as much time as I can with the younger generations (the future of our country and planet) encouraging them to find their inner genius, leverage their passion and to be persistent in achieving their goals - far too many playground ambitions go to the graveyard unrealised. This is one of the key reasons I started Joskos and work in and serve education.
What has been your personal highlight of 2019?
Spending quality time with my children and helping them to work on their dreams and goals - they're busy becoming YouTube stars - winning Brazilian Jiujitsu medals and winning in the goal of challenging daddy's patience at times.
Which famous person deserves a (gentle) slap?
None in particular I'd like to slap; I would, however, high-five Arnold Schwarzenegger. His story, grit, attitude, persistence and his achievements despite his early challenging are very inspiring. His autobiography, Total Recall, is one I would definitely recommend reading.
What two things (apart from family) would you grab if your house was on fire?
My phone, so that I could organise another place to stay! And the old-school family archives and photos. Memories appreciate in value and those snapshots in time tell a valuable story.
Which of your 2019 predictions have come to pass?
That 2019 would be another year of growth and success. We've won some significant and multi-year national contracts, and our customers keep sharing that we are making a positive difference - that's what success means to us.
What TV show have you binge watched this year?
Isn't YouTube the new TV these days? The TV is monopolised by the children, so if I do ever get sight of the TV I'm being subjected to toy reviews on YouTube!
How has 2019 been from a business perspective?
Interesting, non-stop, demanding, successful and we'll be growing circa 20% this year. We are now more than 100 team members, we've restructured, changed the way we do a lot of things and have created some new positions all geared towards creating outstanding customer and people experiences as we head into 2020 and beyond.
What annoys you most about your commute?
I drive to the office and usually make calls on my way in or sink my head into an audiobook. So traffic has got to be the biggest bugbear for me.
How do you explain the channel to people?
It is the glue between manufactures and customers that holds it all together through a competitive market. Well, something like that!
What have been your favourite and least favourite partner conference destinations?
I have honestly enjoyed all of the destinations, so much so that I've added a couple of days to the itinerary to enjoy and explore the destinations!
What is the biggest challenge facing the channel in 2020?
The channel itself! Brexit is something everyone keeps speaking about and it's a distraction (and opportunity). How about we focus on what is within our control and find ways to collaborate to create an even better competitive advantage and situation for our companies, people and customers.
