Paul Eccleston

MD UK & Ireland, Exclusive Networks

What has been your business highlight of 2022?

It has to be joining Exclusive Networks in September. Having admired its business model and growth over the years, it was a tremendous opportunity to help further scale a highly successful business and I'm delighted to have joined the Exclusive family.

If you were ruler of your own country, what law would you introduce first?

I'd introduce a law to dramatically increase the protection and opportunities of all children.

Which channel or tech leader (outside of your own company) has impressed you most in 2022?

I've gone a little left field here with Yuriy Shchyhol, head of the Derzhspetszviazok, Ukraine's version of the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (also known as the State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection). Clearly not a channel or traditional tech leader but his leadership in combating Russian cyberwarfare has been exemplary.

If you had a warning label, what would it say?

I was brought up to respect all others, so my warning label would be: "Don't disrespect anyone."

What was your first job?

My first proper job was an aerospace engineer. It was the launch of interest in tech (please forgive the pun!).

What was the last book you read, and was it any good?

Noble House by James Clavell. One word: superb. It is set in Hong Kong and takes place over a week or so in 1963. There are a lot of words for such a short time period. It's an incredible saga detailing the development and exploitation of modern Hong Kong.

What's the most important lesson you've learned from another business leader or mentor?

The more you know, the more you know how little you know. Always keep learning.

Who would play you in a movie of your life?

I'd want Jack Nicholson to star as me. Ideally a younger Jack Nicholson, preferably from the A Few Good Men era.