10 February 2025

Richard Dobbie, Director of Sales & Marketing, Datalec

Who was your hero when you were growing up?
My heroes growing up were my parents. They set an incredible example of hard work, determination, and teamwork, shaping my values and work ethic from an early age. They showed me the importance of perseverance when dealing with challenges and the strength that comes from supporting others. Their consistent and unwavering support, guidance, and wisdom were the foundation of my growth, giving me the confidence and tools to pursue my goals. I am deeply grateful for their sacrifices and the life lessons they instilled in me. Without them, I would not be where I am today.

What was your big career break?
My big career break came when I was 25, after months of relentless job applications - over 1,000 online - with no responses while working temp jobs, and I got a call back from CommScope. That opportunity changed everything. The team welcomed me and taught me the industry from the ground up, for which I am forever grateful. That experience not only kickstarted my career but also gave me relationships and lessons that have lasted a lifetime. To this day, I remain close friends with my first hiring manager, Dom, who continues to mentor and guide me. Thanks Dom!

What did you want to be when you were growing up?
Growing up I dreamed of becoming a snowboard instructor. The idea of getting paid to do something you love while teaching others and sharing the joy of the sport sounded like the perfect career. There’s a saying: ‘If you work doing something you love, you’ll never work a day in your life,’ and that’s exactly how I felt about snowboarding. The freedom, exhilaration, and connection to nature made it my ultimate passion and if it didn’t pay peanuts, that’s the job I would be doing today.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would you choose?
While it may seem cliché, if I could dine with any famous person, it would be Winston Churchill. His life was marked by monumental decisions that shaped the course of history. Churchill’s unwavering focus, steadfast dedication, and extraordinary resilience during some of history’s darkest hours are remarkable. I would value the opportunity to hear his thoughts firsthand - exploring his strategic mind, his gift for inspiring others through powerful words, and his relentless determination to overcome adversity. A dinner with Churchill would undoubtedly provide an invaluable insight into leadership and courage and be inspirational.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is to treat others the way you’d like to be treated. It’s a simple yet profound principle, which encourages respect, empathy, and understanding in every interaction. By approaching people with respect and fairness, you create meaningful connections and build trust, both personally and professionally. This timeless advice serves as a constant reminder to me to lead with courtesy and integrity, no matter the circumstances.

If you had to work in a different industry, which would you choose?
If I had to work in a different industry, I would choose robotics. This field represents the next groundbreaking evolution in technology with the capacity to reshape the world as we know it. With the potential to revolutionise every side of society and daily life from healthcare to manufacturing, robotics is equipped to drive incredible advancements. It’s an exciting space to watch.

What would you do with £1 million?
If I had £1 million, the first thing I’d do is take my family on an unforgettable, all-expenses-paid holiday to create lasting memories together. Next, I’d pay off the mortgage for financial peace of mind, followed by donating a portion to charity to support causes close to my heart. The remaining funds would be wisely invested to ensure security for the future.

Where would you live if money was no object?
If money was no object, every 6 months I would live in a different location – first stop Italy.

What’s the greatest technological advancement in your lifetime?
The greatest technological advancement in my lifetime has to be the internet. The World Wide Web was invented just a few years before I was born, and I’ve had the opportunity to watch it evolve into something genuinely transformative. It has become the backbone of modern life, revolutionising communication, education, and entertainment. Its impact is immeasurable, connecting people and ideas in ways that were once unimaginable and driving change in virtually every aspect of our lives. I’m incredibly proud to be part of the industry that builds data centres - the critical infrastructure that powers the internet. It’s rewarding to play a role in enabling the connectivity and innovation that defines our world today.