Otago Polytechnic chief executive Phil Ker likes the colour yellow, a good drop of Central Otago pinot and has a very simple message to live life by.
What is one strong childhood memory?
As a 6-year-old I ''led'' my first protest, to try to overturn the decision of our teacher to punish the whole class for the misbehaviour of a few.
I recall my strong sense of injustice that the innocent majority were penalised for the transgressions of the fewby having our weekly swimming lesson cancelled.
Alas, while I organised the class in an orderly protest, my efforts were unsuccessful. On reflection, I learned a lot about leadership, authority and power.
What is your message? ''Just do it.''
It is often far easier to get forgiveness than permission. Too often people have good ideas for improving their workplace or community, but fail to follow through because they are waiting for someone else's approval.
I encourage people to back themselves and to implement that which they believe is right; provided, of course, it is lawful.
If you were going to an island and could only take three things, what would they be and why?
My iPad, fully loaded with my ebook collection (200-plus books yet to read) and my music (350-plus songs). Reading and music are two of my favourite leisure activities, the others being walking and running. A solar charger for the iPad. The reason is obvious.
A good supply of Central Otago pinot noir. It is indeed a pleasurable activity to watch thesun set over a nice glass (or two) of good wine, even if on one's own.
What's something only your family knows about you?
My family knows my favourite foods: toast with peanut butter and marmalade, all things coconut, and Turkish delight. They also know that I have a very high tolerance for people not behaving as they might, but when I decide enough is enough I deal with things decisively (to put it politely).
You are a new addition to the crayon box. What colour are you, and why?
I am a yellow crayon. It's my favourite colour, which I associate with new beginnings, possibilities and innovation; all of which I value and thrive on, and like to think I am good at.
