What attracted you to join Newtrality?
I was so excited to have the opportunity to join Newtrality. It’s really impressive how big of a name and how good of a reputation the company has carved out for itself in such a small space of time.
From within, it’s fair to say that the company has lived up to the hype. This organisation has great people, great values, and is doing fantastic work for its clients. It’s such a huge privilege to be able to join these guys at such a pivotal moment in the growth of the company.
What have you been working on so far?
I’ve been working on client projects looking at automation readiness and operational capacity. Aside from that, I’ve been having a great time building out the technology assessment and enablement tools used internally.
What’s surprised you about your first few weeks?
A lot of companies talk the talk on culture, but Newtrality really lives its values. Ben and Mike are deeply committed to a clear and articulated vision of how they want this company to act as it grows, and because they – and the rest of the management group – are all operational and close to the delivery being carried out by the business, they can make sure that those values are enshrined in the fabric of everything that we do.
How would you describe the team and culture?
Everyone on the team is incredibly smart, focused, and driven to deliver great outcomes for our clients. It’s just a tremendously impressive group of people, all deeply committed to the idea of practical public services. I was fortunate enough to join the organisation on the same day as two other new colleagues – Olly and Hannah – and we’ve all been reflecting on how fortunate we are to have such a great team to slot into.
What are you looking forward to next?
Figuring out what’s next in the wake of the LGR decisions of the past few months. In a lot of places, LGR will come back, but even in the places where it doesn’t, transformation is required and inevitable. Helping senior leaders work out what that means for their organisations will be a huge and satisfying challenge.
Quick-fire round
Three words to describe your first few weeks: pacey, stimulating, fun
One thing you’ve learned already: Diversity of viewpoints is great. I’ve spent most of my career in technology-led transformation. Working with someone whose background is more focused on Adult’s and Children’s social care provides a completely different perspective on familiar problems.
Best part of your role so far: Getting to know my colleagues. The whole company rented a cottage in Shropshire for two days in my first week. In at the deep end!
Tea or coffee: Green tea or iced mochas.