Work History

Zafire (June 2010 – August 2023)

Zafire is a medium sized software development house based in Banbury in England.

As Technical Director

As Zafire's Technical Director, I led development teams in the UK and Sri Lanka, and initiated the growth of the Zafire Technical R&D department. I facilitated new contract acquisitions for products developed during my tenure as Head of Aviation Development, establishing key partnerships with industry leaders such as Qantas, Emirates, and SAS. My responsibilities also encompassed the establishment of the Australian office, including the recruitment of staff across project management, quality assurance, development, and support functions.

During my initial tenure, I strategized and executed the integration of Atlassian's JIRA, Confluence, Service Desk, and Bitbucket platforms into Zafire's operational framework. This integration yielded a comprehensive overview of project delivery, staff timesheets, performance metrics, bug reporting, QA feedback tracking, and documentation management. This marked Zafire's inaugural implementation of such a system, navigating through challenges to swiftly establish it as an integral practice. While initially focused on development, the rollout naturally expanded to encompass Q&A, project, administrative, and commercial teams in subsequent years.

A pivotal initiative followed, entailing the seamless migration of both our hosted clients and internal systems from physical servers at Rackspace to leading cloud platforms, specifically Azure or AWS. Azure was deemed the optimal choice, aligning seamlessly with the distinctive requirements of Zafire's hosted clientele. My role encompassed orchestrating coordination among internal teams, third-party providers, and clients. The project encompassed eight key clients, Zafire's internal infrastructure, and a substantial array of over 30 servers. The projected return on investment was conservatively estimated at 165K per annum, a forecast that has been consistently surpassed, reaffirming the strategic value and foresight of this transformation.

Amid the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, my responsibilities evolved significantly. I assumed leadership of the Technical Support team and pioneered the establishment of a new Technical Services team in response to a strategic need. This coincided with the transition of day-to-day management of development teams to a newly appointed Head of Development. Concurrently, I undertook the critical task of overseeing operations within the Australian team, while adeptly managing and optimizing our global support unit, all under the constraints of reduced staffing levels resulting from the pandemic.

Leveraging the unique circumstances presented by the Covid-19 period, I capitalized on reduced flight activities to execute a strategic migration initiative. This involved the seamless relocation of our remaining Aviation clients from their existing Rackspace infrastructure to the Azure cloud platform. This move was prompted by a substantial reduction in flight processing, and it reflects my ability to leverage external challenges for operational enhancement and strategic advancement.

As we came out of the Covid pandemic, my role underwent a comprehensive evolution. My newfound responsibilities encompassed customer support, service delivery, database administration, release management, and the strategic oversight of all technical facets, including consultancy and research and development. Additionally, I took charge of networking, internal IT, licensing, and an all-encompassing security framework spanning our software, company operations, and infrastructure, including our cloud offerings.

In tandem with this transition, I diligently crafted a comprehensive two-year roadmap, empowering both the Technical Services and Technical Support teams to effectively execute against this vision. I redefined roles for line managers, initiated new recruitment drives, facilitated promotions, and established a robust technical policy library comprising over 20 meticulously reviewed and updated documents.

To modernize and streamline Zafire's support methodologies, I architected and implemented a fully automated monitoring and alerting system, built upon the Nagios platform. In response to customer demands for enhanced service coverage, I re-defined the dedicated 24x7 "out of hours" support team, adeptly trained to expedite issue resolution in alignment with aggressive service level agreements (SLAs). This proactive approach also extended to the implementation of self-healing processes, culminating in a more resilient and responsive support ecosystem.

To optimize large-scale data reporting and analysis, I strategically chose the elastic.co "ELK" stack, executing its successful implementation for both customer data reporting and internal Zafire operations. This encompassed integrating machine health metrics (beats) and project analysis data from Jira databases. I undertook a pivotal role in devising and implementing comprehensive solutions for data extraction, transformation, and loading (ETL) into the elastic database. Subsequently, I orchestrated the creation of dashboards and reports, enabling streamlined insights and informed decision-making.

In the realm of security, I meticulously established a framework for continuous monitoring and reporting across our cloud-based infrastructure, web application endpoints, and mobile binaries. This encompassed a meticulous selection of tools, prominently featuring tenable.io offerings supplemented by other providers. My oversight extended to ensuring our adherence to evolving security standards through annual cyber essentials training and certification, guaranteeing alignment with the latest requirements.

Addressing a distinct need, I revamped Zafire's release management approach by formulating and implementing streamlined processes and documentation. This transformation effectively mitigated risks stemming from excessive manual interactions and human-related factors, ensuring smoother release cycles and enhanced reliability.

As Head of Aviation Development

At the start of my journey at Zafire as a Development Manager and Senior Software Engineer, my initial focus centred on revitalizing the existing software suite through the strategic deployment of a nimble, agile development team. This journey commenced with the creation of an in-house development platform and framework, a strategic move designed to eliminate third-party licensing expenditures and facilitate the deployment of contemporary, web-based front-ends for our software solutions.

A notable undertaking during this phase included the inception and construction of a standalone mobile application tailored for the Qantas Domestic operations. This pioneering solution empowered RFID tag reading as part of the "Next Gen" initiative, an innovation that continues to be a cornerstone of operations.

My professional trajectory increasingly gravitated towards the Aviation sector, fostering deep collaboration with Qantas, as well as other airlines and airports. Throughout this tenure, I played a pivotal role in the initiation, proposal, development, and seamless delivery of multiple projects. This endeavour often entailed productive partnerships with an array of prominent third-party providers, including Sabre, Amadeus, Pinnacle, Unisys, IBM, and others. This collaborative approach enriched our product offerings and solutions, ensuring our capacity to cater to a diverse and evolving market landscape.

Key products

FirstBag: Played a pivotal role in the enhancement and development of this cornerstone product within the Zafire Aviation suite. Led the transition from version 3 to version 4, fostering close collaboration with Qantas, the end customer, and Unisys, the infrastructure provider.

FirstLoad: Conceptualized, designed, and developed this groundbreaking product tailored for Qantas. Successfully implemented across 57 airports in Australia, it revolutionized baggage and cargo loading onto aircraft through fully automated processes. Achieved significant cost savings in the millions for Qantas by optimizing staff interactions across multiple departments.

FirstFlight: Spearheaded the scoping, design, and development of this innovative solution for QantasLink. Facilitated the implementation across 57 Australian airports, empowering pilots to leverage iPads for precise flight route planning, fueling information capture, and real-time calculations. Streamlined cockpit operations, eliminating reliance on limited crew room computers.

FirstTrak: Collaboratively designed and developed this versatile product in partnership with hardware provider Pinnacle. Created to enable asset tracking and reporting in industries such as airports and quarry vehicles. Seamlessly integrated with Google Maps and currently operational across multiple global sites.

FirstFIDS: Orchestrated the complete lifecycle of this new product, from inception to design, development, and delivery. Tailored specifically for Qantas, it equips staff with internal flight information on company iPads. Available on the Apple App Store.

FirstLight: Conceived and led the design and development of this groundbreaking product, leveraging Samsung Smart TVs' inherent capabilities to provide streaming media, information services, and advertising revenue to transportation hubs. Significantly reduces operating costs and environmental impact by eliminating the need for additional PCs to drive displays. This product was seen as groundbreaking even by Samsung themselves, and I was invited to the Samsung campus in South Korea to present my solution.

FirstConX: Pioneered the design and development of this novel module within the FirstBag ecosystem. Enabled real-time baggage tracking across airport and airline networks, delivering alerts and reports on at-risk connections. Projected savings in the millions through reduced instances of mis-connected bags.

FirstRamp: Architected and developed the mobile application platform for this cutting-edge ERP product, FirstRamp.

SmartMobile: Conceptualized and crafted the mobile application platform for SmartMobile, a complementary addition to Zafire's existing SMART suite of products.

Quest Projects (2006 – 2010)

As IT Manager / Software Engineer

Engaging with Quest Projects, a lean two-person venture, I embarked on a consulting journey spanning 2004 to 2006. This professional relationship further blossomed during my tenure at IBM, reflecting a longstanding association. My collaboration with Quest culminated in a joint effort to conceive and actualize the online business process engine "QBIS." This initiative harmonized with my expertise in familiar technologies, lending adept support to a diverse clientele.

The Quest Projects customer spectrum encompassed a wide array, ranging from small enterprises with fewer than 10 employees to large-scale corporations boasting thousands of staff, all leveraging enterprise-grade applications. At the helm of the support framework, I steered operations catering to a multitude of notable clients, including international entities.

A defining achievement within this collaboration was the orchestration of a state-of-the-art VOIP PBX system. This innovation is meticulously crafted to scale seamlessly from a modest number of operators to substantial deployments, numbering in the hundreds. The system's successful implementation at Hired Help for their telephone answering service stands testament to its versatility. Notably, this entirely online system can be seamlessly deployed in a cloud environment, obviating the need for in-house PBX hardware.

Additionally, I spearheaded the creation, configuration, and administration of a comprehensive portfolio encompassing in-house servers, applications, and web platforms. This multifaceted role underscored my ability to navigate diverse technological domains, ensuring optimal operational efficiency and reliability.

Self Employed Consultant (2004 – 2006)

In 2003, I concluded my tenure with IBM to embark on an entrepreneurial path, establishing my own consultancy venture aimed at addressing unmet needs within the IBM customer community. This strategic move was underpinned by a notable market void in consultancy and training, coupled with the assurance of IBM's backing. Over a span of two years, my consultancy business became a trusted partner for IBM customers and business associates, contributing substantively to diverse projects spanning marketing initiatives to intricate technical design endeavors. My role was instrumental in ensuring that software solutions aligned seamlessly with strategic business objectives.

During this period, IBM extended direct engagements with me for both training and consulting purposes, affirming the value I brought to their ecosystem. Furthermore, my expertise was sought after by numerous prominent IBM partners, who entrusted me as a sub-contractor for a range of technical and marketing consultancy undertakings. This synergy with key players underscored the effectiveness and value of my consultancy services, solidifying my reputation as a pivotal contributor within the IBM ecosystem.

IBM Software (1994 – 2004)

System Builder was bought by UniData in November 1995. The subsequent company merged with its biggest competitor Vmark to form Ardent in February 1998. After a successful push into the Datawarehousing market, Informix acquired Ardent which became the 6th largest software company in the world. In 2001 IBM announced its acquisition of the database business of Informix Software and I became an IBM employee with continued service throughout this period of employment.

April 2001 – 2004 (IBM, EMEA)

As EMEA Marketing Manager

In the role of EMEA Marketing Manager, I held accountability for all Informix Products, including the Ardent U2 product line. Transitioning from an initial UK position, my elevation to the EMEA level was strategic, aimed at preserving and fostering brand loyalty within the Informix customer ecosystem as part of the IBM software portfolio.

My initial focus centered on disseminating targeted marketing communications to both our direct and channel partners, outlining IBM's commitment to advancing the Informix product range while concurrently introducing complementary IBM technologies. A notable achievement during this phase was the conceptualization and seamless execution of the Infobahn Roadshow series across the EMEA region. This innovative initiative met with resounding success, inspiring emulation within other sectors of IBM, thereby solidifying its proven effectiveness.

Beyond spearheading the Product Marketing efforts for the Informix family, I undertook a broader role encompassing "Retain and Grow" initiatives across the entire EMEA territory. This holistic approach facilitated the development and execution of comprehensive retention and loyalty marketing strategies within the expansive IBM Software Data Management portfolio. My leadership extended to devising and implementing cross-brand marketing initiatives tailored for the Informix customer base, consistently achieving targeted metrics and objectives.

This role demanded a dynamic blend of strategic insight, cross-functional collaboration, and targeted execution, ultimately reinforcing Informix's standing within the IBM software ecosystem while nurturing enduring customer relationships.

February 2000 – April 2001 (Informix, International)

As Senior Product Marketing Manager

I was the Senior Product Marketing Manager for Relational Tools and Technology. The products I managed were focused in the “Tools” area of the business. Mainly, RedBack, an Object Based Application Server aimed at allowing real-time OLTP integration with Web, XML and Java based solutions. I was also responsible for the SB+ 4GL suite of products and the various Terminal Emulators Informix provided. The role covered all aspects of Product Management from overseeing the release of new versions, to overseeing the production and documentation as well as planning new releases. For the marketing side of my role, I performed more of an evangalising role, focusing on conferences, cyber-seminars, exhibitions and customer visits. My role was worldwide, reporting to a Senior VP in Denver, CO.

In the capacity of Senior Product Marketing Manager, I led a dynamic portfolio within the realm of Relational Tools and Technology. My scope centred on the "Tools" sector of the business, with a primary focus on driving value through strategic management of products like RedBack—an Object-Based Application Server engineered for seamless real-time OLTP integration with Web, XML, and Java-based solutions. Additionally, I held responsibility for steering the SB+ 4GL suite of products and the diverse array of Terminal Emulators offered by Informix.

Inclusive of a global view, my role encapsulated the comprehensive spectrum of Product Management. This encompassed orchestrating seamless new version releases, driving production and documentation workflows, and formulating future release strategies. On the marketing front, my role was characterized by an evangelical approach, where I fervently championed our product offerings. This entailed active participation in conferences, cyber-seminars, exhibitions, and customer engagements, elevating brand awareness and fostering strategic relationships.

Operationalizing this role on a worldwide scale, I reported to a Senior Vice President based in Denver, CO. My multifaceted responsibilities demanded adept cross-functional collaboration, strategic vision, and a relentless commitment to driving value across our diverse product suite and engaging with customers and partners across the globe.

April 1998 – February 2000 (Ardent, High Wycombe)

As Senior Technical Pre-Sales

In my capacity as Technical Pre-Sales Specialist for Relational Tools and Technology, I undertook a pivotal role in driving strategic engagements. My purview extended across a comprehensive product spectrum, notably including SB+ 4GL, RedBack Internet OLTP Application Development Toolkit, UniData/UniVerse NF2 Databases, and diverse Terminal Emulators.

At the core of this role lay the art of effective pre-selling. This encompassed delivering compelling product presentations that resonated with diverse audiences, while simultaneously crafting and executing persuasive proof of concepts and demonstration systems. These initiatives were instrumental in conveying the tangible value and capabilities of our offerings to a broad spectrum of clientele.

My engagement spanned a diverse array of customers, ranging from prominent entities like William Hill to esteemed institutions like The Natural History Museum. This role required an innate ability to tailor technical narratives to resonate with diverse business objectives, translating product features into tangible benefits that resonated with each unique customer profile.

July 1996 - March 1998 (UniData/Ardent, Milton Keynes/High Wycombe)

As Senior Technical Consultant for Relational Tools and Technology.

Within my role, I led significant projects that left a lasting impact. These encompassed the development of a comprehensive Personnel system for MAFF (now DEFRA), a Document Search and Retrieval System for The British Library, and an innovative Intranet Holiday Booking System for British Airways/Airmiles.

Integral to these successes was the meticulous crafting of comprehensive Functional Specifications, which served as the foundation for precise system design and execution. Additionally, I steered the creation of comprehensive project plans that guided the seamless realization of each initiative.

These projects not only demonstrated my capacity to navigate complex technical landscapes but also highlighted my ability to tailor solutions to meet the unique needs of diverse organizations spanning public sector institutions and prominent corporations within the aviation industry.

August 1994  - July 1996 (System Builder/UniData Chester/Sydney)

As Senior Software Engineer

During my tenure as a Senior Engineer for SBClient GUI Terminal Emulator, I devoted a significant period to advancing the System Builder/UniData's GUI solution, seamlessly modernizing legacy systems for operation within a contemporary GUI environment. Concurrently, I played a vital role in the initial coding stages of the groundbreaking Web-enabling RedBack product.

For the first six months of 1995, I returned to the UK, spearheading the implementation of transformative solutions within customer applications. This on-site engagement allowed me to gather invaluable customer feedback, a crucial resource that informed subsequent enhancement strategies. My dual focus on refining existing solutions and pioneering cutting-edge products underscored my dedication to technological advancement and customer satisfaction.

Dolphin Computer Services (1989 - 1994)

As Software Engineer / R&D Team Leader

In the capacity of Senior R&D Team Leader, I embarked on a trajectory that began as an engineer and swiftly transitioned towards spearheading the exploration of innovative technologies within application development. My journey culminated in the establishment and leadership of an autonomous Research and Development department within the Charities Division of Dolphin, with a team of one staff member under my direct supervision.

Regrettably, financial imperatives necessitated the dissolution of the Charities R&D Division within Dolphin in 1994. Despite this outcome, my tenure was characterized by a commitment to technological advancement and strategic leadership within the realm of application development, leaving a significant imprint on the organization's pursuit of cutting-edge solutions.