The A-List: 2008

Born

1st January 1952

Job

Commercial director

Company

The Independent

Work Telephone

+44 (0)20 7005 2100.

Address

191 Marsh Wall, London, E14 9R

Fantasy business partner

Bono.

How do you off-set your carbon footprint?

I work for The Independent.

Greatest influence

My father, and a passion to succeed.

Clubs

Solus Club, Arsenal, SSC.

Favourite gadget

A reversible cryomatic linux (in black).

Desert island objects

A speedboat, Cameron Diaz, a solar-powered iPod.

Most-admired politician

Bill Clinton power, charisma, charm and luck.

Favourite media

The Independent, Uncut, Sky football, Radio 1, GuardianUnlimited.

Biggest risk taken

Following my heart.

Perfect day

I'm with people I love, the sun is shining and Arsenal stuff Chelsea.

Who should play you in the film of your life?

Homer Simpson.

Career highlights

United Newspapers, Punch Magazine, The Observer, The Mail on Sunday, The Independent.

Fictional hero

Darth Vader.

Hidden talent

Art.

Best job outside advertising

Serving fry-ups in a transport cafe.

Lowdown

The ever-enthusiastic Barnes runs a well-regarded commercial team at The Independent. It was supplemented this year by the arrival of the former Mail on Sunday salesman Steve Atkinson as the deputy commercial director, prompting some to ask if there is sufficient room for all the senior sales people at the title.

Most expensive purchase

A huge music library.

Why are you good at what you do?

Having passion, but knowing when to walk away.