
SOMETHING ABOUT ME
An accomplished IT executive with over 14 years of diverse experience, specialising in leading global digital transformation across professional services and manufacturing sectors. Proven track record of directing mission-critical IT operations, implementing ERP solutions, and ensuring compliance with sector-specific regulations. Skilled in aligning technology initiatives with organisational goals, leveraging cutting-edge innovations such as AI, cloud solutions, and data analytics to drive substantial value and efficiency gains.
Exceptional communicator, adept at advocating for technology at C-suite and board levels, demystifying complex tech concepts to influence key decision-makers. Demonstrated success in building high-performing IT teams, optimising vendor relationships, and delivering cost-effective technology strategies that support the evolving needs of modern businesses, from startups to established corporations.
MY EXPERIENCE
Apr 2023 – Present
IT Director
James Cowper Kreston
Spearheaded the development and execution of strategic digital plans driving business transformation in a top 50 accountancy firm.
• Developed and executed a comprehensive IT strategy, transforming the IT function from an outsourced MSP model to an in-house operation, resulting in a 12% reduction in annual IT costs through efficiency savings and contract renegotiations.
• Led the implementation of a modern, secure IT environment, conducting a full security posture assessment and implementing advanced cybersecurity measures, including Password Vault, SSO integrations, and a cyber awareness program using the KnowBe4 platform.
• Spearheaded the migration of all on-premises servers to Azure and SaaS platforms, enhancing scalability and reducing operational overhead.
• Implemented IntApp, a document management system.
• Established a hardware refresh program with regular review cycles, ensuring the organisation remains technologically up-to-date and secure.
• Optimised outsourced MSP relationships, right-sizing services and building an internal IT team while maintaining cost efficiency.
• Delivered projects using both Waterfall and Agile methodologies, ensuring a customer-centric approach and alignment with business goals.
• Regularly presented to the board, providing monthly technology updates, cybersecurity assessments, and strategic investment proposals to drive digital transformation initiatives.
Feb 2020 – Apr 2023
IT Manager
The NAV People
Directed end-to-end technology operations during a period of transformative growth where the company more than doubled in both staff numbers and revenue. Led the development and implementation of scalable IT strategies, policies, and systems to support rapid business expansion.
• Established the IT department from the ground up, ensuring compliance with GDPR and other regulatory requirements and maturing IT operations from a startup to a corporate standard.
• Played a key role in the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), leading IT integration and technical due diligence for multiple mergers and acquisitions, ensuring seamless systems consolidation and business continuity.
• Introduced standardisation and processes across IT operations, enabling the organisation to scale effectively during a period of rapid growth, with staff numbers and revenue more than doubling.
• Achieved Cyber Essentials Plus certification, strengthening the organisation’s security posture during a critical growth phase.
• Managed IT budget and resources, optimising system performance and staff productivity during rapid scaling.
Jun 2018 – Feb 2020
IT Manager
Kyocera SGS Precision Tools Europe Ltd
Oversaw IT operations, directing technology installations, upgrades, maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Led the end-to-end implementation of a new ERP system, including requirements gathering, system configuration, data migration, and user training, resulting in a 20% improvement in operational efficiency.
• Developed and implemented disaster recovery and backup procedures, ensuring business continuity and minimising downtime.
• Coached and mentored IT staff, fostering a high-performing team capable of supporting the organisation’s technology needs.
Sept 2014 – Jun 2018
Senior ERP Consultant
K3 FDS
Delivered ERP solutions, encompassing requirements gathering, business process analysis, system configuration, and implementation for Sage X3, Sage 1000, and other platforms.
Provided training and support to clients, ensuring successful adoption and optimisation of ERP systems.
Earlier career includes progressive roles as a Technical Engineer, Support Analyst, and Consultant with BottomlineTechnologies, Infor Global Solutions, Sage Group, and Air Products.
Education
King’s College London
Jan 2025 – Jan 2027
MA International Affairs (Cyber Security)
University of Hull
Sept 2017 – Jan 2020
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Kingston University
Sept 2007 – Jul 2011