CSO, Ignition Technology
What was your dream career as a child?
Farmer - I always wanted to work outside with animals.
What has been your personal highlight of 2019?
Cycling 100 miles in the London 100 for the charity Dreams Come True.
Which famous person deserves a (gentle) slap?
Jeremy Corbyn for obvious reasons.
What two things (apart from family) would you grab if your house was on fire?
Assuming the dogs are safe also then a couple of family pictures that I can't get back from the cloud.
Which of your 2019 predictions have come to pass?
That the uncertainty around Brexit would certainly have an effect on UK business.
What TV show have you binge watched this year?
Fleabag and Brassic - great low intellect base humour. Just what I need as an escape.
How has 2019 been from a business perspective?
Everyone says great, right? Genuinely very good growth but like everyone we always want more. We have certainly seen larger deals being delayed, going through more rigor in purchasing and organisations just waiting to see what will happen with Brexit. I hate using it as an excuse, but it's reality.
What annoys you most about your commute?
I seem to attract sick/ill people. The lady or gentleman who insists on sitting next to me on the train pulling their handkerchief in and out of their pocket, sneezing and coughing even when there are seats available on the rest of the carriage.
If you could witness one past event, what would it be?
To observe the cracking of the Enigma code. The ultimate problem solving with a huge social and political impact.
How do you explain the channel to people?
The channel is a chain of businesses that helps get the right services and solutions to the right customer base at scale through contacts and strong relationships.
What have been your favourite and least favourite partner conference destinations?
My favourite has to be the Don Carlos in Marbella. I've had many years of going there with great friends, partners and customers. My least favourite are hotel conference rooms with depressing tired décor. I could be anywhere in the world.
What is the biggest challenge facing the channel in 2020?
Staying relevant. Our industry and business in general is moving at such a fast rate that you can't assume the old approach to anything will remain the same. You have to stay agile, innovate and stay relevant.
