James Hardy

Managing director, CCS Media

What was your dream career as a child?

I pretty much wanted to be a professional at whatever sport I'd watched on Grandstand each week.

What has been your personal highlight of 2019?

Supporting my wife through a career change; it's usually her supporting me so it's a nice change.

Which famous person deserves a (gentle) slap?

Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren) in Rocky IV because no one likes a big bully or a cheat. I'd then run away as fast as I could!

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

As long as my two dogs are included within the family category (they should be!), it would be an old book and a photo album.

Which of your 2019 predictions have come to pass?

I didn't make any predications in terms of business. I made some bold predications on a marathon finish time and missed the mark somewhat.

What TV show have you binge watched this year?

I did try to watch Manifest but only managed to get halfway through.

How has 2019 been from a business perspective?

2019 has been positive at CCS. We have a great team and we are continuing to make progress across all areas of the business on our success journey. That said, there is and always will be lots to do. Absolutely no room for complacency.

What annoys you most about your commute?

Thinking (I try not to) about how much time I spend travelling annoys me more than the actual commute. For the most part, it's fine and just part of my working life.

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

Martin Luther King Jr's ‘I have a dream' speech, Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC, 1963. What a message! As relevant today as it was then. Timeless wisdom.

How do you explain the channel to people? I have tried this a few times and it never makes sense to anyone.

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

My least favourite would be Venice - I don't particularly like boats. Barcelona must be my favourite destination for conference events. A few hours on a flight, no jet lag and a city that has everything. An early start running along the sea front before meetings/events is just perfect!

What is the biggest challenge facing the channel in 2020? Complacency and ambiguity.