Head Of It
CurrentMake Architects is an international architecture practice, founded in 2004 by Ken Shuttleworth, with a team of architects and interior and urban designers in London, Hong Kong and Sydney.Appointed to the Head of IT to lead the turnaround of a previously failing and dysfunctional IT department, creating a support framework aligned with expanding international business needs.➤ Oversaw the provision of business-critical IT services and support for 170+ users globally, with additional remit for providing IT support for site/build offices, aiding construction project delivery.➤ Thought leadership for technology and IT issues, influencing business strategy and aligning IT with long-term goals. Acted as a ‘trusted advisor’ on IT, reporting to the CEO & presenting to the board.➤ Project management including the implementation of a complex AV setup in the new head office, Sky for Business as a centralised messaging platform, Office 365 and migration to Exchange Online.➤ Vendor and supplier management, including working with Darktrace (Cyber security partner), Softcat and CAE (supplier of IT services), Mimecast (email), and Netapp (Storage provider).➤ Introduced a ‘hybrid’ working policy which led the business through the Covid-19, maintaining the firm’s position as a ‘top-30’ architectural practice and protecting £20m+ annual turnover.