Marc Sumner

Managing director, Robertson Sumner

What was your dream career as a child?

Sports agent, Jerry Maguire-style!

What has been your personal highlight of 2019?

Launching the channel chat podcast show - the response from the channel has been awesome.

Which famous person deserves a (gentle) slap?

Anthony Joshua for his loss in NYC against Andy Ruiz Jnr, but I wouldn't actually do it.

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

My mobile phone and back-up charger.

Which of your 2019 predictions have come to pass?

I predicted that the talent shortage would worsen in 2019, which it has, but I'm a recruiter so I would say that.

What TV show have you binge watched this year?

Billions.

How has 2019 been from a business perspective?

Awesome. We're currently tracking at 30 per cent growth YoY and I have the biggest and best team on board.

What annoys you most about your commute?

Nothing, I live two minutes from the office.

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

Rumble in the Jungle, Ali vs Foreman - the best boxing event ever.

How do you explain the channel to people?

With difficulty!

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

My favourite was Gitex Dubai. My least favourite was Infosec.

What is the biggest challenge facing the channel in 2020?

Channel firms adapting to selling service-based solutions rather than product.