Doing business with Chris Skelton of Adobe

‘By making the decision to shift our marketing to digital, we are able to combine art and science,’ says Skelton, managing director, Adobe Australia and New Zealand

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Name:

Chris Skelton

Title: Managing director, Adobe Australia and New Zealand

How long have you been in your current role?

I’ve been with Adobe a little more than three years, and in my current role for approximately nine months.

What business technology issue is your organisation focusing on?

We focus on enabling the digital experience. From TV and movies, to magazines, websites and advertising, Adobe’s technology is virtually everywhere you look. By making the decision to shift our marketing to digital, we are able to combine art and science. By combining content creation with data insights – essentially combining the art and the science – it creates a more relevant, engaging customer experience.

We are continuing to transform our company just as our customers are transforming to keep pace with the enormous opportunities in front of them.

What are your interests away from work?

When I’m away from the office, my time is spent with my family. I have a three-year old son that keeps me on my toes, and spend plenty of time outdoors enjoying all that Sydney has to offer – including an occasional round of golf.

Richard Branson is an entrepreneur who never loses sight of the importance of culture, and culture is something that is vital to us at Adobe.

Chris Skelton

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?

You have two ears and one mouth, and the best leaders use them in that proportion!

Professionally, who do you admire most?

Richard Branson is an entrepreneur who never loses sight of the importance of culture, and culture is something that is vital to us at Adobe. In the 2014 BRW Great Places to Work Survey, Adobe was ranked 14th in Australia, and that’s something that we’re very proud of.

How long have you been working in IT? How did you get into IT?

I have been in IT for more than 20 years. My first job after I graduated in 1993 was at Hewlett-Packard in the UK.

If you weren't working in IT, What would you be doing?

Growing up I was a passionate football/soccer player. My dream would have been to play for a living, but the reality is I was never good enough!

A key pointer for keeping abreast of business technology trends?

Read as much as possible. Regularly keep up with industry trade publications, influential bloggers, national and regional newspapers and industry thought leaders. It’s especially important in the tech sector, as the landscape changes at a rapid pace.

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