David Watts

Managing director & senior vice president, UK & Ireland, TD SYNNEX

What has been your business highlight of 2022?

The development of our team and our partnerships. We did well when we couldn't see each other face to face and we still don't see each as much but what a difference it makes when we do.

If you were ruler of your own country, what law would you introduce first? I'm pulling out my inner hippy here…

I would say kindness first in all law making. That will improve or dismiss 90 per cent of laws.

Which channel or tech leader (outside of your own company) has impressed you most in 2022?

There are so many I could mention. If I have to choose one, it would be Roger Whittle of Jigsaw24. He was early into banging the drum on sustainability, has acted with passion and conviction, and is showing exemplary thought leadership. And he's great company and is partial to a loud shirt, and I don't mind that.

If you had a warning label, what would it say?

"Don't get him talking about the government."

What was your first job?

Ryman's the stationers as a Saturday job. I loved that job. Mastering the till, talking to customers, understanding the weight of paper and expanding document wallet options... those were the days.

What was the last book you read, and was it any good?

I love spy thrillers and I'm reading Charles Cummings' Box 88. I've read nearly all of his books now and they are page-turners. I'm also reading Xi Jinping - The Most Powerful Man in the World by Stefan Aust and Adrian Geiges, which has recently come out. It's an amazing story of the ascent of the Chinese President written by two German journalists.

What's the most important lesson you've learned from another business leader or mentor?

A very basic one - walk fast and smile as you move through the workplace. People are watching you and will gain or lose energy based on how you appear.

Who would play you in a movie of your life?

One of the Minions. They seem quite capable and can move easily between comedy and pathos. They deserve the chance, I reckon.