'How did I get into tech? Playing 'Pong' on console helped!' - 15 Questions with VMLY&R Global CIO Trevor Attridge

Attridge takes part in Computing's '15 Questions' series and discusses the advice he'd give his teenage self, and the technology of the future he's most excited by

Trevor Attridge is Global CIO of advertising agency VMLY&R. Previously he was CIO of GroupM and MEC, having spent almost his entire career working in marketing and advertising.

He now takes the hot seat in Computing's '15 Questions' series, following on from Asda CIO Anna Barsby and Met Office CIO Charles Ewen.

What job did you want to do as a child?

I was ‘sold' on the idea of Insurance, purely due to some great visuals used during a job fayre showing an oil rig, fire and lots of rough seas. Ironically I ended up in advertising where we sometimes make the unappealing seem appealing.

What was your first ever job?

My father owned a security fabrication company; I would spend most Saturdays helping in the factory sweeping floors and generally being given jobs to keep me out of harm's way! The hours were long, pay was rubbish, but I absolutely loved every minute of it.

How would you describe your current work to a 5-year-old kid?

I help people use computers far better than they did yesterday.

How, why and when did you get into technology?

I'd always been fascinated with technology - having the privilege of being in an environment of where ‘things were made', this sparked an interest in computing (the early pong console helped!) and the ability to create things without raw materials. That canvas and the possibilities it gave stayed with me throughout my life, from the creation, to the usage of, and ability to help people really get the most from technology ticked all of my boxes.

Who is your biggest inspiration when it comes to work/business?

Without a question my Dad; while he did not conquer the world he taught me valuable lessons on being brave, resilient and how true value lies with relationships and trust.

What achievement makes you most proud?

Seeing others thrive, taking something raw with potential and seeing that ‘come good'. The beauty with that if you can apply that to all facets in life.

What's the best life and work advice you've ever been given?

Everything will be all right in the end, and if it's not right, then it's not the end

What was the first band you ever saw?

Technically my mates from school at the Covent garden club. They were up for a record deal at the time; writing their own songs to add to their many talents. If we are talking about popular bands - then U2, Joshua Tree tour at Wembley Stadium. That was a good day.

What is your favourite book / film?

An impossible question to answer.

If you could speak to your teenage self, what advice would you give him?

Everything will be all right in the end, and if it's not right, then it's not the end.

What makes you laugh?

When I am with friends and family - it just seems to come without trying.

If you could solve one major problem, what would it be?

People. They are the cause of all problems.

Think of your favourite place. Where are you thinking of?

Devon, The Cove bar, on a Wednesday, 6pm sun setting and a cheeky G&T.

What traits do you most like and dislike in others?

Honesty - you can flip that both ways.

Which technology of the near future are you most excited about?

Advanced battery technologies / renewable energy at scale - we need to reboot the planet as a priority. The fact we are giving up on the Earth and talking about colonising other planets actually makes my heart sink.

Computing's virtual IT Leaders' Summit will take place on Wednesday 24th March.