Richard Aird Email and Phone Number

Consultant within the Sage Enterprise Professional Services Finance team, delivering quality solutions to our customers.As a consultant I was involved in the whole cycle of the project including scoping, build, training, UAT and go-live, at all times ensuring delivery of solutions that enabled customers to meet their strategic goals.I also specialised in Sage Enterprise Intelligence which is a powerful Business Intelligence solution. I am experienced in installing, configuring and training customers to get the most from their data so that they have actionable insights to make smart business decisions. I also delivered in house SEI training for both internal and external delegates.

Working within the Mid-Market Europe strategy team the main purpose of the role is to ensure that the product roadmap is fully aligned with Sage's strategic direction and operational plans. This is a high profile role which requires engagement at all levels of the business.Key duties and responsibilities include:Creation and management of the Product Roadmap and Market Requirements Document (MRD).Requirements Gathering and Wishlist ManagementClear definition of USPs and benefits of new features.Close collaboration with R&D and Marketing

• Identify and own functional and non-functional requirements• Groom the Product backlog• Act as a Customer Advocate during the SDLC• Ensure that all output produced by R&D complies with current legislation, industry standards and company best practice• In addition to my primary role I am also a Sage Lead Internal Auditor which involves running a small team of internal auditors. As a team we audit internal business processes, documenting any non-conformities and ensuring these are addressed by re-auditing the process. I also facilitate external audits for the Winnersh office.

This role entailed providing support and advice to Sage business partners and customers using a large suite of mid market ERP products, including Line 500 and Sage 1000. I also provide support and consultation for business partners and customers using the Sage POS retail solution. This role covers a very broad base of products and therefore an ability to learn quickly and understand business processes is required to provide an effective and professional service.During my time in this role I have also took part in site visits to install new software, provide staff training, assist professional services and generally represent the support department.

I spent three and half years supporting the Sage 50 software suite. My success in this role demonstrated my analytical skills, problem solving, technical knowledge and customer service skills. The role also gave me an opportunity to advise small businesses on accounting matters and understand their day to day needs. During this time I was also seconded to work with the Technical Authors and the Data Repair Team. Whilst working as a Technical Authors I learned how to write clear and concise documents for the Sage support website. I also gained useful skills using the web editor Dreamweaver.Repairing Sage 50 data requires technicians to be very accurate, efficient and organised.

First line support role for the Department of Works and Pensions who were in the process of rolling out a new IT infrastructure.