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To get the best results you need to nurture and motivate your people in small , well-connected groups .
What are the region-specific challenges when implementing new technologies in Europe ?
Each geographical region has its own unique challenges . Broadly speaking , Europe is lagging behind the UK when it comes to the available tech talent to drive growth – particularly when it comes to e-commerce . and secured in a constantly evolving world of digital threats . Data engineering , experience design , cybersecurity and cloud tech will all be areas of additional investment by those companies looking to stay truly digital , competitive and agile to emerging opportunities .
How do you deal with stress and unwind outside of the office ?
As a foodie I like to unwind in a restaurant . My local area spoils me with two three-star Michelin restaurants . Spending quality time with my family is also a source of great regeneration , particularly when travelling around the world on our quest to visit as many countries as we can but in alphabetical order – we ’ re currently on the letter ‘ H ’.
If you could go back and change one career decision , what would it be ?
I wouldn ’ t go back and change anything . I truly believe everything happens for a reason . I try to look forward as much as possible as a result – after all , you have to take the rough with the smooth to reach the summit of your ambitions .
In fact , a recent report AND released on the tech market in the Netherlands found that over a quarter of Dutch companies say they are missing out on revenue because they do not have the digital capabilities to meet the demand and expectations of customers and end-users . A further 28 % also said they are lagging behind in their digital innovation . This is just one small snapshot of some of the challenges the entire continent is facing .
As a result , we invest a lot of time and money into ensuring we really get under the bonnet of the market we ’ re entering . I ’ m pleased to say that we have plans to launch further clubs ( our name for offices ) in Europe in the coming year .
What changes to your job role have you seen in the last year and how do you see these developing in the next 12 months ?
Working from home has been a massive change in the last 12 months on a personal and company operational level . We ’ ve now got a blended working policy in place which gives everyone the freedom to operate where they need depending on what type of work they ’ re doing . It ’ s all about empowering people to perform at their best .
What advice would you offer somebody aspiring to obtain C-level position in your industry ?
Being an expert in your field will take you a long way when coupled with a good attitude and ability to think objectively .
Getting things done at pace is also important – particularly in the tech sector . You need to be a good delegator and have a solid strategic mindset – this also encompasses the management of risk , the guiding of others in your business and having the ability to shape decisions .
Perhaps most importantly , you need to be commercially-minded too . After all , you need to deliver consistent business results to eventually achieve a bigger purpose . p
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