technology
reseller.co.uk
60 seconds...
43
60
seconds...
with Ian Aitken, Exertis
AV Sales and Commercial
General Manager
What’s currently having the greatest
impact on your business?
Too many to list to be honest! Uncertainty
thanks to Brexit and the General
Election, rapidly and constantly evolving
technologies, the emergence of Amazon
for Business, converging AV/IT markets…
the one thing I can say is that remaining
flexible and having the ability to adapt to
change quickly is critical for any business
in times like these.
Where do you see the next big
opportunity?
In our world of AV, LED is always front of
mind. By 2020 it is predicted that nearly
50% of displays will be LED, so we must
ready ourselves for this. Selling LED is very
different to standard videowall solutions
and we need to start evolving now to make
the most of this key driver.
What would make your day job easier?
If someone could invent a forecasting
model that was 100% accurate they would
take some of the pressure off and slow
down my hair loss.
What’s the best bit of business advice
you’ve been given?
“If everyone is moving forward together
then success takes care of itself.”
A famous quote from Henry Ford reiterating
the importance of teamwork.
If you had a crystal ball, would you have
done anything differently?
Apart from my first wedding, probably not.
I spend all of my time looking forward not
backwards to be honest.
Describe your most embarrassing
moment.
I can’t possibly say, but I did need to order
a new pair of trousers…
What was your first job?
Ever? Working in a pub. But I have also
worked in Butlin’s for my sins! My first
proper job was as an AV demonstrator fresh
out of Uni.
What would be your dream job?
Definitely not Butlin’s….I have a passion for
flying so probably a fast jet pilot would be
the dream.
Money’s not an issue, what’s your
perfect car...and where would you like to
drive it?
The Lamborghini Huracan Spyder – amazing
looking car and just as impressive to drive
(so I’ve heard!), ideally through the highlands
of Scotland – God’s drawing board!
Fine dining and good wine, or curry and
a pint?
There is a place for both, but now I’m
getting old the fine dining and good wine
appeals more. This gives me more time
away from the kids and a chance to unwind!
Favourite holiday destination?
I love the Caribbean, so either Barbados or
St Lucia. Great people, chilled pace of life
and good rum!
How do you like to spend your spare time?
It’s a balance between relaxing with the
family, watching my little girl grow up faster
and faster, and socialising with friends in the
local. Anything that involves as little mental
stimulation as possible is good with me!
