Ways of Working

My Working Philosophy

I believe in combining technical excellence with human-centered leadership. My approach is built on transparency, collaboration, and continuous learning. Having worked in remote roles supporting US/UK markets for over 20 years, I've developed a unique perspective on building and leading high-performing teams across time zones and cultures.
As a former Physics teacher and experienced leader/manager, I believe in the power of education and growth. The heart of education - taking someone from where they are to where they could be - remains central to my approach, both internally, and where our customers are concerned. I combine technical excellence with human-centered leadership, built on transparency, collaboration, and continuous learning. Having worked in remote roles supporting US/UK markets for over 25 years, I've developed a unique perspective on building and leading high-performing teams across time zones and cultures.

Leadership Style

Building & Enabling Teams

Hiring & Development: Focus on potential and growth mindset over perfect experience matches

• Mentorship: Active investment in team members' growth and career development
• Growth Mindset: Focus on potential and growth over perfect experience matches
• Autonomy: Empowering teams with clear context and decision-making frameworks Feedback: Regular, constructive feedback loops at all levels. The guiding princple is "No Surprises".
• Mistakes are inevitable: Accepting that mistakes will be made, but ensuring it is never because we didn't take enough care or were indifferent

Communication & Collaboration

• Storytelling: I believe in the power of narrative to connect and inspire
• Adaptive Communication: When presenting, I adapt to the room's energy and context
• Work-Life Integration: I believe in bringing your whole self to work, and taking work home when it's meaningful
• Cross-Functional: Breaking down silos between teams and departments
• Transparency: Clear communication about context, decisions, and expectations

Technical Approach

Problem-Solving Framework

• Context First: Understanding the full picture before diving into solutions
• Balanced Approach: Balancing ideals with pragmatism - ideals for long-term direction, pragmatism for today's solutions
• Iterative: Rapid prototyping and continuous improvement
• Scalable: Building solutions that can grow with the organization

Technical Leadership

• Architecture: Focus on maintainable, scalable solutions
• Best Practices: Establishing and maintaining high standards
• Knowledge Sharing: Regular technical discussions and documentation
• Innovation: Balancing proven solutions with emerging technologies

Working with Me

What to Expect

• Clear Communication: Direct, honest, and constructive feedback
• High Standards: Expectation of excellence balanced with support
• Collaboration: Active partnership in problem-solving
• Growth Focus: Investment in your development and success

My Commitments

• Availability: Clear communication about availability and response times
• Support: Active support for your goals and challenges
• Advocacy: Championing your work and growth
• Feedback: Regular, actionable feedback and guidance

Values & Principles

• Integrity: Honest, ethical, and transparent in all interactions
• Excellence: Commitment to high-quality outcomes
• Growth: Continuous learning and development
• Balance: Sustainable pace and work-life harmony
• Impact: Focus on meaningful, measurable results
• Curiosity: I believe curiosity without action is a waste of life

Working Hours & Time Zones

• Flexible Schedule: Available for early mornings (APAC) and evenings (West Coast)
• Core Hours: Ideally available throughout European working day
• Boundaries:
  • Mondays: Prefer not to start before 9am
  • Fridays: Aim to close comms by 4pm
  • Weekends: Away from work machine (barring major issues)
• Emergency Contact: Teams have my personal mobile for major issues
• PTO: Encouraging proper time off for rest and recuperation

Personal Insights

• Background: Born in Lancashire, raised in the Valleys of Wales, now living near Oxford
• Family: Married with two children (Jack, 18, and Zoe, 15)
• Interests: Long walks with our dog Senna, cycling, paddling, motor biking, and occasional track days
• Learning Style: When under pressure, my default response is to learn my way out of it
• Philosophy: Influenced by the Eightfold Path and Tao de Ching
• Business: Co-owner of See More Potential Ltd.

Working Across Time Zones

Best Practices

• Overlap Hours: Clear communication about availability
• Documentation: Comprehensive async documentation
• Handoffs: Structured knowledge transfer
• Cultural Awareness: Respect for different working styles

Tools & Processes

• Async Communication: Leveraging tools for effective remote work
• Meeting Structure: Efficient, focused synchronous time
• Knowledge Sharing: Systematic approach to information sharing
• Team Building: Intentional remote team culture

This document reflects my commitment to building effective, sustainable, and high-performing teams. I'm always learning and evolving my approach based on new experiences and feedback.