The last word: Neil Harrington

Neil Harrington, managing director, Intransit Software

What has been your biggest achievement in your current role?

Bringing the team of professionals together at InTransit Software is the most significant. Their dedication and enthusiasm in delivering our services to clients is something I am very proud of.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career?

The one person I would highlight is my business partner Rob Young. He has the knack of understanding my thoughts and translating them into a technical process. He is also the most direct and honest person I know.

What is your dream holiday?

Skiing in Val d’Isere. Perfect snow, miles of slopes and some great bars and restaurants.

Who was the last person you received a text message from?

Derek Fawcett, of Traders Vehicle Delivery. A friend and client, who runs his business with the latest technology and the traditional values of good service. He also has a sense of humour that means you would probably not forward his messages to your mother.

You are on a desert island – what three things do you take with you?

A sail boat, a supply of Jack Daniels and Sky Sports.

When was the last time you took public transport?

The StanstedExpress last week when I travelled to our new London offices at Devonshire Square from the airport. The train is always empty but the wi-fi is useful.

If you won the Lottery, what would be the first thing you would buy?

A staffed Villa in Mustique to enjoy while planning what to spend the rest of the money on.

What is your favourite sitcom?

Black Books. A programme that makes me laugh out loud and does not make you feel that you have seen it all before on another show.

And your favourite film?

Death of a Salesman. A classic movie with a great cast and a simple storyline. It also acts as a reminder that sales people do not need to be the type of people you want to avoid.

What would you do if you were made Prime Minister for the day?

It would take so much more than a day to fix everything that is broken with government, so I would probably cut fuel duty and have lunch with the Queen.

What has been your biggest mistake in business?

There have been many. However, I would say the biggest mistake was believing that everyone takes a professional pride in what they do. I have learned this is not always the case.

What is your fondest childhood memory?

Christmas. Family, grandparents no longer with us, too much food and presents. Great times.

What is your favourite book?

The Bonfire of the Vanities. Great story, strong characters and it covers a lot of political and class issues without being a heavy read.

Your favourite dish at a restaurant?

The breakfast at Limes Cafe in Winchmore Hill. There are certainly nicer restaurants and more sophisticated menus, but Limes became the traditional start of the day for a weekend of football for the male members of our family.

How would you describe your leadership style?

Approachable, targeted and direct. I believe that if you give people the tools and the opportunity they will deliver more than you expected.

When did you last feel guilty about the environment?

I travel a lot of miles around the UK and abroad, so my green footprint may not be the best.

Who was your childhood hero?

Without wishing to sound cheesy, I would say my parents. They worked hard to ensure my brother and I had every opportunity. I still admire the sacrifices they made for us.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Forget about the opinions of others and just do it. Oh, and do not get a credit card until you are 25.

What is the one object you couldn’t live without?

Sky+

Which superhero from comics would you most like to be?

I would probably say Iron Man. Cars, a flying suit, Gwyneth Paltrow and incredible gadgets. What more could a man want?

What has been the pivotal moment in your life?

Starting InTransit Software with Rob. The challenges of creating something new, finding the people who work with us, working with clients from all types and size of business and seeing this vision turn into a global business is the most enjoyable and satisfying of experiences.