Paul Burns - Chief Technology Officer at Synergi
Did you always envisage a career in the world of technology?
I have loved technology from an early age, so it was fairly inevitable I would end up in the technology sector somewhere. At the age of around 10 or 11 I was playing, and even started writing simple computer games at home on the RM 380Z and more latterly the Sinclair ZX81. When the rubber keyed ZX Spectrum 48k came along it was a revelation!
What attracted you to your current role?
My role of CTO at Synergi allows me to work alongside some exceptionally talented people developing our Managed Service capability whilst engaging with a wide variety of customers and suppliers. The role perfectly blends operational strategy, technology and engagement with people both inside and outside the organisation.
What tips would you give to someone looking to work in the industry?
The technology sector today offers vast opportunities to explore different technical career paths. Enthusiasm in your role – this should be your most important focus, find an organisation with a culture that fits, a role you enjoy and then work hard to keep developing relevant skills.
Tell us the most exciting thing you’re currently working on?
Technology is always an exciting space and innovation is key to continued progress, as an example we have been driving the use of technologies like passwordless authentication for some time now, for me though continued service improvement is what drives me the most – how can we improve every day?
Tell us about your team.
I am hugely proud of the team we have built within Synergi, exceptional customer satisfaction scores and Service Level Achievement. What always amazes me is the number of customers taking their precious time to write positively about their experience and we receive these almost every single day.
What’s your fondest memory of a career in the industry?
I have loved every part of my career from being a software developer in the early days, deploying accounting solutions, through to technical delivery including cabling (with a soldering iron) right through to my leadership roles. One early memory is visiting a customer on a monthly basis to open up their PC & remove the 51/4″ floppy disk they had accidentally posted inside the case again! Things were a lot simpler back then!
What are your remaining career aspirations?
I want to continue finding innovative, valuable technology solutions that help our customers be more secure and successful. I want to help build and develop the business alongside Peter and Justin as we keep growing, driving our continued success. Most importantly we all love spending our time working with our customers which is a real passion and I can never see that changing!
What piece of technology would you be lost without?
In order of importance I would be lost without My Phone, Laptop, Smartwatch, Alexa, PS5, In Car technology, Smart speakers, Smart TV and all the other 500 gadgets I love! We have all become so connected today that taking a break can be just as important as all the tech we use during the day, so I always have a paperback book to read – SCI-FI of course!
Who are your heroes and mentors?
In the world of business meeting the original founder of Datto, Austin McChord was a fantastic opportunity. Seeing someone who has a real passion for technology building his backup solution from an empty PC chassis, taping in hard disks and selling this as a service is inspirational. From day one he had a vision and a solution that worked! He built a company with a culture that was second to none. Austin founded his company back in 2007 and in 2017 it was purchased by Vista Equity partners for $1.5 billion.
When not working, how do you like to relax?
When I am not working I am usually running, skateboarding, snowboarding or playing PS5 games (I sound like a teenager!). For those who know me I love cars and can talk about them all day, and of course if there is a dance floor nearby I will be the first one on it!
