What was your first job?
My first job was with a company called HEAT based in Belfast. They worked with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and provided heating response, service and new installations. My role was to help automate many of the manual aspects of the business. In the days before the iPhone, I built a mobile application for managing gas response (breakdowns) and service (CP12).
What qualifications do you have?
I graduated from Queens University Belfast with a BSC in Computer Science. It was here I developed my interest in software engineering.
What do you attribute your success to?
My passion for technology fuels my drive for constant improvement and a deep-seated commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and leveraging innovations to solve complex problems. I am dedicated to continuously expanding my knowledge and skills, seeking out new challenges and opportunities for growth. Whether it’s mastering the latest programming languages, exploring cutting-edge software development methodologies, or understanding emerging trends in artificial intelligence and machine learning, I am always eager to learn and evolve.
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
I’m the ultimate geek. From staying up-to-date with the latest tech trends and innovations to immersing myself in coding marathons and exploring the realms of IoT, my passion for technology is all-encompassing. I thrive on the excitement of discovering new gadgets, mastering complex software, and understanding underlying principles that drive technological advancements.
Who do you look up to in business?
I find great inspiration in tech leaders like Scott Hanselman, a vice president at Microsoft.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
I believe that actively listening to my team and communicating effectively at their level helps me understand them better, which in turn brings out the best in them.
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
Placing greater emphasis on long-term investments and attracting high-profile events and speakers will significantly enhance awareness of the opportunities available in Northern Ireland.
What website or app could you not do without?
YouTube - it’s a great way to keep up to date with my interests in everything tech related.
What was the last book you read?
The last novel I read was Hackers, which inspired the movie starring Jonny Lee Miller and Angelina Jolie.
What car do you drive?
As an early adopter of electric cars, I chose the Nissan Leaf. I appreciate the modern, minimalist design that many electric vehicles feature.
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
I had the opportunity to work in Malaysia for a year. It was one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences I’ve had so far!
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
Travel for both business and pleasure.
