Group managing director, Utilize
What was your dream career as a child?
An explorer. I actually wanted to be a mountaineer like Edmund Hillary first and foremost. Him and Ranulph Fiennes were my childhood idols.
What has been your personal highlight of 2019?
Building our new offices. We recently converted a warehouse into an amazing space and environment for the team to work in; really putting our people at the centre of our business.
Which famous person deserves a (gentle) slap?
Lewis Hamilton. Perhaps controversial I know - but he has to be the most moody, miserable and whinging sportsperson ever! Cheer up!
What two things (apart from family) would you grab if your house was on fire?
My Surface Pro (sad but true) and my Arc'teryx climbing jacket - I live in that thing and it's a bomb-proof all weather monster and has many stories to tell!
Which of your 2019 predictions have come to pass?
Brexit hasn't made a negative difference to the need for businesses to embrace and invest in technology. It hasn't halted our client engagements at all!
What TV show have you binge watched this year?
Peaky Blinders, although this last series hasn't been as good (it reminds me of another popular throne-related show).
How has 2019 been from a business perspective?
Best year yet. Despite the distraction of building and moving our HQ, we have had a record year and used that to help build an amazing place for our people to work. That is testament to our amazing team.
What annoys you most about your commute?
The fact that I can't hold a phone conversation for the 30-minute commute down the A127 without it dropping out 4-5 times. Sort out our UK mobile/4G coverage before worrying about upgrading to 5G!
If you could witness one past event, what would it be?
There are so many. The biggest personal one for me has to be whether George Mallory was actually the first person to summit Everest. We will sadly never know.
How do you explain the channel to people?
That big stretch of wet stuff that separates us from Europe!
What have been your favourite and least favourite partner conference destinations?
Favourite = Vegas. Least favourite = Vegas.
What is the biggest challenge facing the channel in 2020?
We need to ramp up fixing this digital skills and talent shortage. From our perspective we are embarking on some exciting partnerships with Microsoft and local colleges. Watch this space!
