What has been your business highlight of 2022?
To be honest I have had many business highlights this year! 2022 for me has been a year of major change that saw me move from Cisco after 29 years and take up a new role at Ampito as its group CEO. Suddenly I see business from a whole new perspective, and it's been an eye opener. You realise how protected you are in the corporate world and being on the front line at a partner is tough…but hugely rewarding! It is one of the best decisions I have made, and I am learning new things every day! What has been absolutely incredible is the support I have had from other colleagues in other channel partners, for which I am hugely grateful. But for me the strength is in us all working together and creating a partner-to-partner eco system. This is where our true strength will lie and will bring increased business opportunities for all of us!
If you were ruler of your own country, what law would you introduce first?
I would say a four-day week and compulsory Prosecco on a Friday maybe!
If you had a warning label, what would it say?
Now that's a good question. "Volatile when shaken - store in a cool dark place!"
What was your first job?
My first proper job was in a nightclub behind the bar. I loved it as it was like being out but didn't cost anything. I also learnt a lot about how to deal with people. If you can reason with an extremely drunk person, sober is easy!
What was the last book you read, and was it any good?
I don't read as much as I would like but my favourite author is Karin Slaughter. She writes really good gruesome crime fiction - which is odd for me as I can't watch that stuff. I have followed her characters for years now. Her last book that I read on holiday this year was The Silent Wife.
What's the most important lesson you've learned from another business leader or mentor?
I have been fortunate to have many good mentors over the years and all of them have offered different things but here are my favourites: • Never forget where you came from and show respect to everyone across the business - they all have their part to play • Be self aware and appreciate the impact you have on others - it may not always be the impact you intended • Spend company money as if it were your own and let that guide your decision making • A firm handshake is really important - that one was my dad!
Who would play you in a movie of your life?
Meryl Streep - she can play some many different roles and that's sometimes how my life feels!
