Meet the CEO is a regular feature on TechCentral. The aim is to introduce our readers to the people behind the news by providing insights into the leaders shaping South Africa’s ICT industry. Our latest interview in the series is with Adam Craker, CEO of IQbusiness. — Duncan McLeod, Editor
What was your first-ever job?
I received my first wages as a Fishmonger working on a Saturday morning at the age of 13 for a local shopkeeper. For three years, I worked at the weekends and during school holidays in the shop serving customers and preparing fish.
Who is your greatest role model, and why?
My two grandfathers played a pivotal role in my life after my father passed away when I was just eight years old. Both started and led family businesses that I worked in and learned from.
What’s your favourite quote?
“Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly.” — Robert F Kennedy
What phone do you currently use, and why?
Apple’s iPhone 7s. I have never used a “phone” so much as this one, and yet the phone is the least used out of all the elements of this device.
What are you currently reading?
I’m about to go on a long flight, so looking forward to escaping with Robert Langdon in Origin, by Dan Brown.
What are your three favourite books?
Rich Dad Poor Dad, by Robert Kiyosaki – it laid the foundation for my financial independence in 1997.
The Art of Possibility, by Rosamund Stone Zander & Benjamin Zander – it opened my eyes to a different way of leadership.
The President’s Keepers, by Jacques Pauw – it reads like a crime novel and was an critical contributor to the downfall of the criminals involved.
What’s your favourite movie?
Just about anything directed by Clint Eastwood – he is one of the greatest directors and movie stars of our time and is an inspiration to me in creativity, living life to the full and reinventing oneself.
What is your most treasured possession?
My 1946 MG TC — a work of art that can be driven down the road.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Applying all the good and bad I have learnt in my career to leading IQbusiness and finding that I still have much to learn. The greatest highlight is yet to come!
What is your greatest regret?
I feel that having regrets is about living in the past. I prefer to look to the future. Although I am not a follower of his religious beliefs, I like the perspective of L Ron Hubbard: “Never regret yesterday. Life is in you today and you make your tomorrow.”
How do you cope with stress?
I head to the Vaal River.
What skill or talent would you most like to possess that you don’t already?
Being a linguist.
What phrase do you most use/overuse in business?
“Grow people. Grow business. Grow Africa.”
What’s your favourite place in the world, and why?
London. I grew up there. I love visiting, now as a tourist. But I love leaving again and coming home.
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