Paul Dove

Director, UK Services Business Development

What has been your personal highlight of 2021?

As with many people this year, I am sure beating Covid-19 comes high on the list. On a personal note, thankfully the vaccination programme got to me before the virus. I am hugely grateful to our doctors, nurses, and all of the volunteers who reduced the impact of Covid-19 for so many of us. Thank you, NHS.

From a work perspective, we are adapting to the new normal with flexible working, working with Podium Fitness 23 to deliver fitness classes and investing in subsidised gym membership among many other initiatives. A huge thanks to all at SCC who have supported our customers and importantly each other through the pandemic.

Which tech figurehead has impressed you the most this year, and why?

This year we said a sad farewell to Sir Clive Sinclair. A true luminary who was instrumental in introducing so many of us to the home computer. A serial inventor, some which were unsuccessful, however Sinclair undoubtedly laid the foundation of today's personal computer and gaming industry. Rest in peace, Sir Clive.

Which one lockdown habit do you plan not to keep going?

Last year I cited Teams as the app I could not have been without. Teams will continue to have its place but as we adapt to the new normal I want face-to-face meetings with our teams and customers, real awards ceremonies and dare I say it, good old fashioned telephone calls!

Which face-to-face industry event are you most excited to return to, and why?

Is the right answer the CRN Channel Awards in November?

If you had the time to learn one new skill, what would it be?

I'd learn the piano. I had a few lessons when I was younger but didn't dedicate the time to practice. Now more than ever it's important to find that time, maybe by this time next year.

If you could go back in time and tell your childhood self one thing, what would you say?

Decisions can only be made on the information you have at the time. Live without regrets.

If you had to sing karaoke, what would be your song of choice?

Not many people will know I was in the choir when I was young. Since my voice broke most people appreciate me not singing, but if I had to I'd ask some colleagues to create Fake That and blast out Pray!

Sum 2021 up in three words.

neat.spill.gentle.