Mark Bird Email & Phone Number

United Kingdom

Stratford-Upon-Avon, Gb

ICRF enables train operators to unlock secure and profitable unaccompanied freight capacity on passenger train networks, driving revenue growth efficiently and connecting communities with the railways.I lead the development and implementation of Freight Guardian, ICRF's cloud-based control platform and manifest application. This platform enables real-time management and tracking of consignments, while also driving ancillary revenue opportunities for train operators.Our ambition is to deliver 50 million parcels using passenger train services across the UK by 2030.

I successfully led for JF Rail Consulting the delivery of Workstream 1 for Network Rail Highspeed's STA4-2 Stations project, supporting the Paris 2024 Olympics. The project aimed to enhance incident communication and response capabilities at St Pancras, Stratford International and Ebbsfleet International stations. My team was responsible for implementing key recommendations, updating risk assessments, and improving emergency plans. We delivered all outputs on time and within budget, ensuring the stations were fully prepared for the demands of the Olympics and future events.In my role, I focused on executing recommendation 7 from the Thames Tunnel review. This involved creating an efficient information cascade process from Ashford International Signalling Centre to frontline teams at the stations. We aligned our work with NRHS, Southeastern, and Eurostar to ensure smooth communication during incidents. By optimising existing customer information systems and establishing clear protocols for information dissemination, we significantly improved operational readiness.The project’s success was marked by the timely delivery of three key outputs: an "As-Is" report on current systems, a phased "To-Be" concept document for future processes, and a comprehensive business case report with costed recommendations. These deliverables have enhanced the stations' ability to manage disruptions, ensuring they meet the high standards required for Paris 2024 and beyond, ultimately improving both performance and customer satisfaction.

Westminster, London, Gb

I led a key sub-workstream for JF Rail Consulting on the Go-Ahead and Sumitomo consortium's winning bid for the Elizabeth Line Concession, focusing on optimising customer information processes and enhancing disruption management. This work was transformational, delivering a compelling and highly innovative winning bid submission in both areas. The approach began with a situational analysis to assess personnel, processes, and data usage, followed by mapping customer information channels and aligning them with industry best practices.Customer information delivery systems were reviewed to identify optimisation opportunities, which informed the development of a business case advocating for improved information interfaces. A detailed concept of operation was created to enhance customer information delivery during disruptions, integrating recommended process improvements. Scaled cost options demonstrated potential gains in customer information metrics.Proposals were drafted to ensure consistent real-time information across all channels during disruptions, aligning with concession requirements. Strategies were also developed to up-skill staff and deploy agile teams for improved customer communication. All work packages were delivered on time and within budget, including extensions to my scope.

Wokingham, England, Gb

For over 8 years, I played a significant role in transforming the customer-facing information networks for several leading UK rail operators, utilising cloud and edge technologies. Notable achievements include the successful implementation of Europe's first Azure "IoT at the edge" Rail Customer Information Networks for Greater Anglia and West Midlands Trains.As a co-founder and the commercial lead at Blackbox, I led the introduction of an innovative multi-million pound customer information eco-system and annuity-based revenue model. This progressive approach facilitated the smooth transition of multiple UK train operators' Customer Information System (CIS) networks from traditional capital assets to a more efficient Software as a Service (SaaS) model. These accomplishments highlight my dedication to fostering innovation and advancement in the UK rail industry.

Manchester, Greater Manchester, Gb

I successfully led a transformation of a long-established company that specialised in biometric time and attendance and access control, which had been in operation for 26 years. I joined the company in February 2011 and was appointed interim Managing Director in June 2013.My primary objective was to restore sustainable profitability to the company. To achieve this, I focused on improving the company's recurring [SaaS] revenue from software and maintenance while also outsourcing manufacturing and transitioning key business systems to the cloud. These initiatives resulted in a significant increase in earnings, from 43% to 54%, taking the company from a £600k loss to a profit of £226k in just 18 months.In July 2015, I transitioned from the role as the company merged with TouchStar Technologies PLC.

Working alongside the Executive Chairman, I played a key role in the transformation of an AIM-listed electronics manufacturing company, which had a legacy dating back to its founding in 1958. This role involved providing commercial oversight and supporting the Chairman in a series of critical actions, including the restructuring and disposal of all operating subsidiaries to transition the PLC into an investment-focused entity in alignment with AIM Rules.In the face of stringent cash management constraints, I implemented a series of pivotal initiatives, including:- Revamping and optimising the commercial teams across all Group operating companies, supported by the integration of SalesForce CRM automation.- Achieving a remarkable 13% increase in group turnover, effectively turning around a challenging £800,000 loss to break-even within a short six-month timeframe.- Assuming the role of interim Managing Director at Feedback Data Limited in June 2013, contributing to the company's eventual turnaround and successful sale to Belgravium PLC.These accomplishments were achieved through collaborative efforts and strategic decision-making during a critical phase in the company's history.

Reading, Berkshire, Gb

As a co-founder of Cayder and a key contributor to OpenWard's success, I played a pivotal role in commercialising this innovative, cloud-based patient flow SaaS platform. Working closely with front-line nursing teams in Primary and Acute care settings, we developed OpenWard, an award-winning solution that significantly improved patient flow.In under 18 months, I successfully sold, marketed, and implemented OpenWard across 13 NHS Trusts in the UK, all without external investment.In 2017, this innovative approach to patient flow was recognised when Cambio Healthcare Systems acquired the company.

Bagshot, Gb

In my capacity as the Group Commercial Director of Steljes Limited, a prominent market leader in large format interactive display products, I assumed a central role following a major restructure of the Group's operating companies.As the Groups Commercial Lead, I undertook the restructure and rationalisation of the group's sales and business development functions. During my tenure, we achieved the remarkable feat of securing the No. 1 market share position for SMART technologies in Europe. This achievement was accompanied by substantial sales growth, increasing revenues to over £79 million while maintaining a solid gross margin of 40%, all within a challenging and declining market.Furthermore, our strategic expansion into the Republic of Ireland resulted in a phenomenal 400% revenue increase, firmly establishing SMART as the market leader and significantly elevating its market share from 15% to an impressive 40%.In August 2008, I made the decision to exit the business, marking a transition in my professional journey while leaving a significant impact on Steljes Limited's market dominance and growth.

Bagshot, Gb

I revitalised a failing events management and audio-visual hire subsidiary, spearheading a significant turnaround from a loss of -£0.5 million to profitability within a year.This transformation involved a thorough restructuring plan, which included reducing the workforce by 60%. Furthermore, I refined the business model to simplify operations and boost overall efficiency. A crucial part of this process included outsourcing all operational and logistical aspects, which increased annuitised revenue and optimised the company's cost structure and performance.

Bagshot, Gb

As a consultant responsible for increasing the company's interactive whiteboard product portfolio's revenue and market share, I executed a detailed sales and market development strategy. This approach yielded remarkable results, with Steljes notably elevating SMART's market share in the UK from 40% to a noteworthy 60% in under two years.The strategy's successful implementation generated £90 million in sales revenues and a strong gross margin of over 42%. These achievements highlight my capability to significantly grow and improve market position in a competitive industry.

Gb

In my dual board-level commercial roles, I spearheaded an exciting period of dramatic sales growth and expansion, encompassing both Digitalbrain and its hardware sales subsidiary, Bullet Point.Digitalbrain, a venture capital-funded enterprise, was a pioneer in the UK's cloud-based managed learning environment and digital content platforms. When we acquired Bullet Point, I assumed the position of Commercial Director, charged with the objective to accelerate and enhance the sales of large format interactive displays and digital content.During my tenure, these areas experienced an extraordinary transformation, with revenues soaring from £240,000 to a remarkable £12 million, all while maintaining a solid gross margin of 37%. This success reflects my ability to drive substantial growth and achieve remarkable outcomes within a forward-thinking, cloud-first enterprise.1. Commercial Director, Digitalbrain PLC (2000 – 2001)2. Commercial Director, Bullet Point Presentations Ltd (2001 - 2004)

I established and led a specialist sales team composed of educational consultants, pioneering and successfully selling interactive classroom displays and digital content.Throughout my tenure, I facilitated a remarkable transformation within the team. Sales figures surged from £75,000 to an impressive £2 million, all while maintaining a respectable average gross margin of 40%. This achievement reflects my leadership and sales acumen in the field of educational technology, contributing to substantial revenue growth and market expansion.

Bagshot, Gb

Responsible for all B2B and channel marketing activities at Steljes Limited, a £26 million value-added audio-visual distributor and Virgin Fast track 100 winner.Key highlights included launching the UK's first and fastest-selling portable desktop projector, the InFocus LitePro 580. The product transformed the way digital presentations were delivered in meeting rooms capturing 90% market share within a year of launch.

Leidschendam, South Holland, Nl

Pioneered the use and development of differential GPS positioning in support of offshore construction projects in Eastern Europe, the US, West Africa and the Far East.

Rdi Post Graduate Dipolma, Business Administration (Distance Learning)

Education record