Simon Williams

CEO, Trustmarque

What's the most surprising lesson 2024 has taught you so far?

The value that cross-functional virtual teams can bring. The impact they have had on driving our Strategic Initiatives has been astonishing.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

Nelson Mandela. He transformed a country and broke down racial barriers as a pacificist. He went through an incredible transformation and also has such charisma- I find him fascinating.

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

Satya Nadella. CEO of Microsoft. He has transformed a Goliath of a Business with a very clear strategy, messages and KPIs and made some massive bets eg security and AI, that have paid huge dividends.

What technology trend do you think is being overhyped, and why?

AI is at the top of the hype cycle. I do believe it will transform all industries, but the hype is too much at the moment. The amount of time and effort that people are spending in finding a use case puts into question the benefits they will get from it. Our focus is to find the right people in the business who will benefit from AI, rather than finding the use case.

If you were stranded on a deserted island but could have one piece of tech with you, what would it be?

Solar powered entertainment device with music, books, films….

What's your go-to productivity hack that keeps you on track during a busy day?

A combination of my Outlook calendar and Moleskin book. I often say if it’s not in my calendar it doesn’t exist. I can search a meeting on my calendar to find the notes in my book.

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

To learn a new language. I think you need to speak the language fluently to truly immerse yourself in the culture (and live in the country) My choices would be either Italian or Japanese