Cybersecurity is on the front page of the news every day , with a new ransomware attack occurring every 14 seconds .
Another big trend emerging across the channel is remote working . At the start of the pandemic , everyone was forced on to Zoom-like platforms , which helped companies set up quickly . But it ’ s not a sustainable long-term solution for companies to use freeware . Businesses suffer if there are setbacks in communication tools , so it is crucial that they find the right partners that are able to put a comprehensive strategy together .
What is your management philosophy ?
I ’ ve always instilled the philosophy of ‘ lead by example ’. I enjoy working hard , and although I have chief responsibilities around strategy and execution , I ’ ll do anything . The management structure is now more lateral and lends itself to a view that we are all colleagues working towards a shared mission . The best ideas come from listening and aggregating , and then putting the knowledge behind it . Collaborating and ensuring everyone is invested , working towards a common goal – is the key to success .
When you look back at your career what has been the most memorable achievement ?
There has been a collective of brilliant moments in my career . I ’ ve just turned 50 , so it ’ s a body of work that feels less of an
I enjoy working hard , and although I have chief responsibilities around strategy and execution , I ’ ll do anything . achievement and more of a way of life . I was given the advice , ‘ Find what you love to do and you ’ ll never work a day in your life .’ I am fortunate to have this in my role : I am able to work with wonderful partners and help them deliver services that change the trajectory of their business . I am grateful for working for an unbelievable company that ’ s grown considerably over the last 10 years .
What made you think of a career in technology ?
Technology always changes . You can be smart , but you have to keep learning to stay smart . The fact there is something new every day , means the industry continues to intrigue and excite me .
I believe I ’ m in a career which is going to change things for the better . If you take any industry and look at the evolution of where we need to go , the pervasive nature of technology is going to be the remedy to raising the global standard . If we want massive changes in healthcare , education , banking – this is how we will achieve it .
What do you think will be the hot technology talking points of the next 12 months ?
Discussions will remain around security , Machine Learning , virtual reality and AI . Businesses will continue using automated tools to drive efficiency . And many changes such as remote working , forced to the forefront by the pandemic , are here to stay across all industries . This could potentially change the labour structure too as organisations now have the flexibility to have remote workers anywhere around the world .
What are your personal interests and where do you like to spend most of your time after work ?
When I ’ m home , it ’ s really important to see friends and family , making up for lost time . Besides that , I enjoy getting outdoors , when I can , to sporting events , outside concerts , cooking and fishing . A little bit of everything keeps life interesting . •
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