Guy Hocking

Group managing director, Utilize

What has been your business highlight of 2022?

It is always about our people! One of the greatest challenges for a leader is attracting and retaining talent. For us, 2022 has seen record numbers of internal promotions and moves across departments. While our track record in this area is well known, our average length of service now stands at well over seven years - an achievement we are immensely proud of. We must be doing something right!

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

Compulsory 12 months' community service for all. Perspective is becoming a much-needed but increasingly rare quality.

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

Honestly, the amount of YouTube my kids watch, I have to take my hat off to Susan Wojcicki! She has successfully infiltrated every corner of my life! On a more serious note, she has always been an inspiration to me. Her vision (as the driver behind Google's acquisition of YouTube), her genuine tech expertise and of course her determined fight for inclusion in the workplace is a welcome step forward. A long way to go, but it starts at the top!

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

"Do not disturb. Tasmanian Devil inside!"

What was your first job?

I used to catch fish with a rod and reel that I bought from a car boot sale, using worms I dug up from the beach. I would then sell the fish to local pubs and restaurants. I eventually ended up running one of them.

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

Personal read? Beyond Possible by Nirmal Purja. It's an inspirational story of what is possible. Business read? I have just re-read Simon Sinek's Start With Why. It is just a brilliant book that every leader should read.

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

Those close to me would say I live my life at 1,000 miles per hour. That I am always busy, trying to get the most out of every day. My business partner and friend taught me to make sure I enjoy the journey and bring those that matter along with me. A very valuable lesson to me indeed.

Who would play you in a movie of your life?

Some (mainly those who have met me in a dark room) say I look like Jason Statham. So, I'll go with him in Fast And Furious - a title which pretty much sums up my life!