01732 759725 50 AND FINALLY Eric Crump, Director of Strategic Alliances, Ringdale 60 seconds with… What’s currently having the greatest impact on your business? Changing working practices, evolving compliance requirements and increasing cyber security threats are causing a major headache for our customers. Working together more cleverly and providing flexible solutions that require minimal support is more important than ever, as engagements have become more complex and customer IT resources at a premium. Where do you see the next big opportunity? While it is not new, the growth in data breach attempts continues to be an issue and helping customers to protect their IP and customer data will always be an opportunity. New vulnerabilities seem to plague the industry weekly across the printing ecosystem. Fortunately, our extensive experience and knowledge together with our partner network means we’re well positioned to help. What would make your day job easier? In my case, the opportunity to escape the confines of the home office and be more than a face on yet another video call, is a definite advantage. I find having the opportunity to meet more people ‘in person’ is a more effective way to build successful long-term working relationships with partners and customers. What’s the best bit of business advice you’ve been given? It’s actually something I say all the time personally and professionally. The saying is; “Don’t be afraid to ask. If you don’t ask, you don’t get”. Ask for help, ask for the business, etc. If you had had a crystal ball, would you have done anything differently? No. I believe everything in life happens for the best, even though I might not be able to see it in the moment. What was your first job? Believe it or not, an M1 Abrams battle tank crewman in the US Army National Guard. I joined when I was 17 years old and served for seven years. What would be your dream job? Lego design engineer (input from my boys). I really enjoy building things and my sons would be elated to give their creative input to help design and test new robotic sets together. Fine dining and good wine, or curry and a pint? Fine dining and good wine. I do most of the cooking at home including special meals and I appreciate a delicious dessert. Favourite holiday destination? Caribbean islands for a milestone wedding anniversary. How do you like to spend your spare time? Volunteering. I’m the unit commander for the local Young Marines unit and I’m on the board of the Managed Print Services Association. Do whatever you can to help your community become better. Money’s not an issue, what’s your perfect car… and where would you like to drive it? A luxury motorcoach for the family and take our time travelling, working and home schooling from the road. Visiting the ‘ 1000 Places to See Before You Die’. Describe your most embarrassing moment. Probably enjoying karaoke with colleagues. It’s always a good time. Eric Crump
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