Helen Hall     

Managing director, AVR International

What was your dream career as a child?

Legal secretary although with hindsight, I would have been terrible at it - there's no selling involved!

What has been your personal highlight of 2019?

Coming back into the business after two years maternity leave. I loved being at home with my daughter but missed the business terribly. Taking back the reigns, a major re-brand and a number of new significant hires has been exciting and stands us in great stead for the year ahead.

Which famous person deserves a (gentle) slap?

Steven Knight for giving us such a poor ending to season five of Peaky Blinders! Oh, and Boris and Trump but we don't have the time to go there.

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

My mum's bracelet and the two cats if I can find them! My phone will already be tucked into my trouser pocket.

Which of your 2019 predictions have come to pass?

Brexit. What a mess and where on earth will it end?

What TV show have you binge watched this year?

Peaky Blinders and Poldark. I really looked forward to Stranger Things but haven't got past episode three yet.

How has 2019 been from a business perspective?

Challenging! It has been a real rollercoaster of a year. I came back from maternity leave in January, and have had a lot of work to do since. But it's excited for what the future holds.

What annoys you most about your commute?

Nothing, I really quite enjoy it… There's time to process the day and to enjoy the drive with no little people in the car or having to listen to a Peppa Pig CD.

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

I'd like to have been in the crowds in London to celebrate on VE Day.

How do you explain the channel to people?

It depends on who I'm speaking to but always a version of we sell vendor solutions for them and help make them work.

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

In 2001 I was helicoptered into the British Grand Prix. I love motorsport so that's a definite favourite - what a great day! My least favourite? A day out in Reading at the Madejski Stadium. We're based just down the road in Twyford.

What is the biggest challenge facing the channel in 2020?

Brexit and everything it is affecting from currency fluctuations and customer hesitancy to legislation changes. Along with age-old issue of recruiting and developing the right people.

 

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