Name: Chris R Houghton. Born: Bolton, 1965. Company: eVentura. Position: Managing director.

Where did you start?
After leaving Thornleigh Salesian College, I started work as an apprentice for Hawker Siddeley in Farnworth. I spent almost 10 years there and they were responsible for my first degree in computing.

Since then, I have been in a number of board-level IT positions both in the UK, Far East and the USA.

I started eVentura and as a new business, I did every job, so I guess I started as the doorman, opening up the office on the first day.

What got you interested?
James Bond films. I used to love all the gadgetry, computers and secret devices. Like a lot of young lads, you start wanting to be Bond for the cars, planes and gadgets.

What is the secret of your success?
A great team ethic and not accepting that 9-to-5 is the work day. If you run your own business, you already know this. If you want to start a new business, and only want to work normal hours, think again.

What is the best decision you made?
Convincing my dad that he should buy the more expensive BBC Micro B back in 1981 for my birthday. It was the first computer that I wrote my first commercially traded piece of software on and it started me off.

And the worst?
Joining a company on the basis of the package offered. It was a terrific package but a really horrible company and working environment. It didn't last long.

Who has been your biggest influence?
My family. Besides my immediate family, I have a large extended family who are all good, honest hard-working people.

What is your biggest concern about operating in your industry?
There is a place in the market for everyone but I am really concerned about the upsurge of offshore IT houses. Like call centres, you get the job done cheaper but often at the cost of quality and customer service.

What is your favourite piece of music?
Depending upon the mood really, but I am really into Red Hot Chili Peppers at the moment.

Favourite book
Its probably the same for many book readers but I have been reading the Lord of the Rings for about 15 years now. I think I have read it about five times from cover to cover.

Favourite film
My favourite film is the Godfather trilogy, some sage advice from Don Corleone on family values.

Favourite spare time activity
Taking my family on holiday to Malta. Sun, sea and Sicilian Marsala and Coke - what else can anyone ask for?

What single piece of advice would you give to someone who wants to get where you are?
Listen. Listen to your mentors, colleagues and, most importantly, your clients.