Paul Crowe, Sales Director, Managed Services

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How did you get where you are today?

I started my working life as an apprentice engineer, sponsored by the government-run Rocket Research Authority, moving into data processing with Philips Data Systems in 1978. Philips trained me as a business systems salesman, and a very successful two years led to promotion to sales manager in South Wales. I then went on to set up a software business in the early 1980s with two friends, developing and selling computing systems around Commodore and Apple, eventually selling the business in 1986. During this time, IBM entered the desktop marketplace with the IBM PC and changed the market completely. I moved with the times and joined a start-up business, ComputerGroup, dealing with IBM and Compaq, as regional director, and we grew the business from two to 30 branches across the UK, eventually selling to a Canadian consulting company in 1990. There then followed fourteen years at a variety of systems integration specialists, including Technology PLC and ICL, fulfilling a variety of roles: business development manager, European operations director, general manager and managing director. I joined CSF in 2004, managing its IBM business, until the company was purchased by Logicalis in December last year.

What are you working on right now?

I'm working with a team of high calibre people to establish Logicalis as a major provider of managed services to midsize and large organisations across the UK.

Who or what has been the greatest influence on your career to date?

The greatest influence on my career to date has been the technological revolution that has taken place over the 30 years that I have been involved in IT. It's taught me to seek out and embrace change and, in doing so, to enjoy the excitement of it.

Who in business do you most admire - and why?

There is no single individual that stands out, as there are many that have had the audacity to try something new, only to see it have a major influence on all of us. I therefore admire people that are bold in their approach to life.

What aspect of your job do you find most satisfying?

I enjoy the fear, uncertainty and doubt when embarking on a new venture. However, the greatest satisfaction is seeing the team of people that have worked with me to deliver our plan reap the rewards of a job well done.

What has been your most valuable lesson learnt?

Anything is possible.

Which are you favourite websites and blogs?

I have no particular favourites although I am sure that the IT Sanctuary will become one.

How do you spend your downtime? Where? With who?

With good company, friends and family.

What lifetime ambition have you yet to achieve?

To have the funding and courage to make a choice every day.

Tell us one thing that most people don't know about you...

I won the annual Boy Scout camping competition 3 years running!