Karlton Gray
Channel director UK&I, Schneider Electric
What has been your personal highlight of 2025?
They are now being recognised both internally and externally. When I was younger, I got a great deal of satisfaction from winning orders or being perceived as a winner. Now, I get even more satisfaction from watching other people succeed and grow. This applies to both my home team (personal) and my work team (professional).
Which tech figurehead has impressed you the most this year, and why?
Dr. Colin Williams - I spent a few hours with him before, during, and after the podcast, and in that time, he made me think differently about life. It’s strange when you meet someone who instantly feels like a mentor, even though they never intended to have that impact on you. To be honest, I’m not sure if he even knows that today.
What was your first job in the channel?
Fast Force new business at Midwich – I don’t know why this sticks with me but you got a Plantronics wireless headset if you made 60 calls in 5 hours. For me, winning this was a badge of honor, but it was also an amazing introduction to the channel.
What’s your personal sustainability commitment for 2026?
Learn more and listen more. That might sound a little vague, but ultimately, I need to step outside the IT channel and consider the impact I can make, again both professionally and personally.
What’s one hidden talent or skill your colleagues wouldn’t suspect you have?
I can speak out loud directly to my children, and they still don’t hear me. Jokes aside, I can solve a Rubik’s Cube and used to MC (badly) when I was much younger.
What’s your advice for new graduates/apprentices in the channel, in three words?
Balance – Live your life today before you get too old, as today is the youngest you will ever be.
Kindness – It’s easy to be kind, and it will give back to you what you put in, it creates a positive ripple.
Lows – Take as much as you can from the lows, as the appreciation for the highs will mean so much more.
What was your first day in your current role like?
Hectic — even more so because of the response I received from the channel. It’s overwhelming to realise that you matter to others.
Who has been the most influential figure in your career so far?
Professionally, Scott Norman at Midwich gave me the values I lead with today. Personally, my mum—although we didn’t have much financially—I always had a lot of love from her, and she was forever in my corner. They are both straight talkers, loyal, respectful people who will always tell you the truth.