Intelligent Tech Channels Issue 35 | Page 62

Early in my career , I was in the armed forces and then went into roles in creative industries such as film and television . However , I craved a career that embraced innovation . of remote working – hiring the best talent wherever it resides . Recently , we have seen an influx of new partners who focus on specialist subjects , such as remote working or post-COVID international expansion . This is opening up a whole set of opportunities to work with partners who are well placed for future growth .
With this trend set to continue as globalisation and remote working increases , we are uniquely positioned to help partners make the shift and reap all the benefits of a global remote workforce . Our own expansion into EMEA and APAC at the start of the pandemic has meant that we have had to build our own business remotely and in uncertain times , though , needless to say , our own EOR model means this ‘ new ’ way of working is in our DNA .
What is your management philosophy ?
I have always been an advocate of hiring great talent that aligns with the organisation ’ s values and culture – employees that are able to hit the ground running . In this hyper-growth environment , I aim to empower others to execute their tasks autonomously , providing support and coaching when required .
Setting out a concrete set of KPIs and encouraging my team to think about succession plans to replace themselves from the get-go ensures employees and the business can scale fast .
When you look back at your career what has been the most memorable achievement ?
Early in my career , I was in the armed forces and then went into roles in creative industries such as film and television . However , I craved a career that embraced innovation .
I applied for my first sales job as a field salesperson selling telecoms equipment having seen an advert for the role in The Evening Standard . Despite there being more than 100 applicants for the role , I got the job with no prior sales or technology experience . They took a gamble on me , and I ’ ve never looked back since .
What made you think of a career in technology ?
I come from a family who love to experience the latest technology , constantly investing in new gadgets or computer gaming – so I ’ ve always been interested in innovation and looking ahead to what ’ s coming next . Technology is always changing and evolving , and I thrive off being a part of such a fastpaced exciting environment .
What do you think will be the hot technology talking point for the year ahead ?
As employers continue to gain confidence in remote working , they will become much more open to hiring the best talent in the world , no matter where it is . New technologies that enable the hiring of talent include the use of Blockchain , Artificial Intelligence ( AI ) and predictive analytics . These provide better identification of talent and enable customers to calculate the optimal time for market entry . More workforces are also likely to be paid and managed through digital wallets and next-generation workforce management platforms . These technologies will enable the continuation of the gig economy : empowering workers to be able to work for anybody regardless of where they are based , as and when it suits them . In the year ahead , I think self-service technology will also become more common . Our own Self-Service Global Expansion Experience , which allows businesses to compliantly grow and manage their global teams in one place , comes at a time in which the Employer of Record industry is increasingly on the rise as the most efficient way for forward-thinking companies to expand their teams globally .
What are your personal interests and where do you like to spend most of your time after work ?
I have three children , and love to spend time with my family , whether that ’ s going on holidays ( when it was allowed !) or biking around local parks . While I enjoy travelling around Europe ( again , when it ’ s permitted once more !) to see my favourite bands , at home I am also extremely sporty and enjoy running and playing squash . I am also a part of a volunteer programme which helps refugees find employment , which I find very rewarding . •
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