Personal profile

Martin Kelman is vice-president of global solutions for telecoms specialist Data Workforce. He was technical manager of a British Army Royal Corps of Signals mobile communications centre in the Gulf War.

What is the most important lesson you have learnt in your career?
My grandfather taught me that all success is built on hard work.

What is the strangest situation you have had to deal with at work?
In my first private-sector role someone was promoted over my head. This taught me the importance of selling yourself.

If your house was on fire and you could save one object, what would it be?
I do not have any possessions which are irreplaceable, only relationships. I would save Nicola, my fiancée.

If you had three wishes to change your company, what would they be?
To transport our clients and contractors forward so that they can see our vision for the future become reality and to continue to grow a talented Dataworkforce team.

What is the best thing about working in HR
The diversity and complexity of people.

What is the worst?
When people take constructive criticism personally.

You have stumbled upon a time machine hidden in the vaults of your company building. What time period would you visit and why?
Sir Alexander Graham Bell’s lab so I could witness the birth of the telecoms industry.

If you could adopt the management style of an historical character, whose would you adopt and why?
I believe Napoleon Bonaparte is the father of all motivational leaders. Up until then many led by fear. His brilliant tactical leadership inspired his people. 

How do you get to work?
A BMW 325i, which is designed for speed, efficiency and delivery.

What would you do if you had more spare time?
My work is my passion.

If you were to write a book, which subject would you write about?
Motivational speaking.