Geoff Kneen

Advania UK

What's the most surprising lesson 2024 has taught you so far?

Openly, I have been taken aback, in a very positive way, at the enthusiasm I’ve witnessed from both Servium and CCS, not to mention our own staff, as we bring our businesses together. We instinctively believe that people are change resistant and self-protective but the excitement to embrace change that I've witnessed has been incredible and bodes well for our future.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

Cicero, I am a fan of Roman history anyway (obviously I don't agree with all of it as it was in truth an ancient civilisation with some barbaric practices) but it would be great if I could have dinner with him where he was able to reflect on the full story of Roman history and what he may have done differently to keep Rome a republic, or how he would have evolved the model to keep it appropriate and avoided its demise.

Which tech or channel figurehead has impressed you the most this year, and why?

Satya Nadella, and not just for the last year. The evolution and reinvention of Microsoft over the last 10 years has been remarkable. Clearly this is not down to a single person and there is amazing talent across many parts of Microsoft, aside from their obvious success they have also led on numerous other areas too such as D&I and importantly working hard to make their tech accessible to all.

What technology trend do you think is being overhyped, and why?

Feels like a trap! To comment on the obvious, I don't believe AI is being overhyped. I think we still have a lot to learn about how best to apply the technology to how we all work and how our businesses operate but I firmly believe that this technology will transform both things and more. We are still at the very early phases of adoption and use but the impact and value of AI will continue to grow long into the future. At Advania we are working with clients to adopt and use this technology and importantly identify where and how AI can truly help and create value, we have to think and apply responsibly, but this is one of those times where the capability within technology has taken a great leap forward.

If you were stranded on a deserted island but could have one piece of tech with you, what would it be?

A golf simulator! And my clubs!

What's your go-to productivity hack that keeps you on track during a busy day?

Prioritise.

 If you had the time to learn one new skill, what would it be?

To speak one of the Nordic languages fluently, probably Swedish, my Nordic colleagues put me to shame in truth, not only with their grasp of English but also their ability to mix Nordic languages as necessary when with other colleagues.