Philip Hughes

Philip has been in the ME IT Channel since 1993. He recently set up Dubai’s first Green Integrated Solution Providers, Akhdar FZCo. Akhdar offer incremental revenue & cost reduction opportunities in E-Waste, Data Security & the new channel opportunity - “Being Green” Akhdar are ME Partners for Sims Recyling Services, a US$ multi-billion corporation, Blancco, the provider of Secure Data Destruction Services and Cryptic UK, an Innovative supplier of integrated Security & E-Crime protection solutions. In 1993 Philip was a member of the team that successfully built up Computer 2000 (TechData), the ME’s first broad-line Distribution business. In 1996 he started APC ME, becoming hugely successful with warehousing, sales, marketing, technical support and Data Centre design in Dubai, in 2006 he became Regional Director for Middle East & Africa. Since 2007, Philip has been a consultant helping with local start-up operations, and as an advisor on IT Channel Issues in the regio

Ryan Mackey

Ryan Mackey is an analyst covering EMEA's high volume technology channels and serves as a consultant to leading distributors, retailers and vendors across the region. He has developed research tools (customer satisfaction, performance measurement, competitive intelligence) and strategic plans for clients and their channel partners. Ryan is a frequent speaker and facilitator at top channel events. At DCC MEA 2010, Ryan will act as the overall event moderator and will also lead the workshop titled ‘The Rise of the Multi-Channel Retailer’.

Kevin Ribeiro

Kevin Ribeiro is the CE & Photo Business Group Manager for GfK-MEMRB Marketing Services, which is based in Dubai Media City. GfK-MEMRB covers most of the countries in the Middle East and North Africa. Kevin has been associated with the GfK group since 2005 and has covered numerous product categories. Since 2009 he has been moved to the role of Business Group Manager for Consumer Electronics & Photo. Prior to joining GfK, Kevin was associated with the logistics industry. Kevin holds a degree in psychology/sociology and is currently pursuing an MBA in marketing.

Marina Turner

In her role as Deputy General Manager of GfK Retail and Technology, Marina works with GfK’s broad client list throughout the 12 Middle East countries. While responsible for all areas of GfK’s extensive sales research, Marina’s main focus is on the development of the IT and telecoms industries. Having worked for GfK in both Europe and the Middle East Marina has extensive experience in the development of strategies in Pricing, Product Placement and Channel Development.

Guy Whitcroft

A seasoned business/operations executive with more than 30 years of experience and a history of delivering outstanding results and profitable growth, Guy Whitcroft is a Director and Principal Consultant with CapitalSteps. A strategic thinker with unique depth and breadth of expertise spanning private / public companies, international business, executive and hands-on leadership, startups, and business turnarounds, he has a record of excellence in IT distribution, vendors, resellers and end-users. Guy's early background encompasses technical, marketing & brand management and sales roles. He is viewed as an accomplished team leader with proven ability to build global Fortune 500 business relationships, align business processes with international standards, position firms for market dominance, and successfully manage crises.

Michael White