Intelligent Tech Channels Issue 31 | Page 62

At WALLIX, the channel is our sole route to market and understanding the needs and requirements of our partners is fundamental to my day-to-day role. into the works. Many organisations have had to digitally transform overnight and for some, this has brought several challenges, particularly around the aspects of remote working, security and data access. Channel partners have become critical in helping organisations to overcome these barriers, and it is also likely we will see a greater emphasis placed on the need to deliver consistency and a smooth transition period. What is your management philosophy? At WALLIX we pride ourselves on three key company values; audacity, commitment and team spirit. I would like to think I embody all of these. I think it is important to trust, motivate and support your team. And when someone has done a great job it is important to recognise that. We can all be swept away with the busyness of a day, but you should always find time to stop and celebrate great work. I am also a believer of regular communication and team work. I would never ask someone to do something that I wouldn’t do myself. When you look back at your career what has been the most memorable achievement? I have enjoyed lots of little milestone throughout my career, from winning a new client to creating long lasting relationships. I feel it doesn’t matter where you are in your career journey, recognition for good work is still such a boost to morale. However, if I had to pick one Cheshire cat moment it would be when I first joined BT. I worked so hard at my first deal it was large enough to get a personal thank you from my managing director. However, I have never looked back and I love working in the technology sector. What do you think will be the hot technology talking point of 2020? Well cybersecurity is certainly going to remain very prevalent. It is one of the biggest talking points and every year the industry continues to grow. The pandemic has also forced many organisations to implement cloud and remote working strategies for the first time. It is likely, as a result, we will also start to see trust and compliance emerging as hot topics. What are your personal interests and where do you like to spend most of your time after work? Most recently I have become more focused on personal health and I love the gym. I do try to work out every day at 7am to kickstart my morning. I also have four amazing children, so as you can imagine I am not actually left with a lot of spare time for anything else. Before lockdown, my typical weekend would usually mean me spending as much quality time with my kids and the wider family. I am very lucky to have such a supportive family unit. Those two days are very precious to me. I am also a huge Marvel fan now as during lockdown the young ones wanted to watch them all again. You can’t beat a good movie night with the family!! • What made you think of a career in technology? When I was a kid I actually wanted to be a firefighter. In truth, like most people, I actually fell into the sales industry through my social and business connections. 62