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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin"><a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/andrew-martin-planning">Andrew Martin</a>, the driving force behind <a href="https://www.am-plan.com/">Andrew Martin Planning (AMP)</a>, has carved a notable career in the realm of planning and development."I started my career in local government in London, and then I did 11 years in a New Town Development Corporation," he recalls. Andrew’s significant contribution was to Basildon, a town born from the 1946 New Towns Act. "I was there because I knew one of the architects very well, who informed me that the government required the town to expand from the original planned population of 80,000 to around 140,000. It was a great time to be there," he explains. However, the early 1980s brought about a shift in government policy, aimed at diverting New Towns funding towards addressing inner-city problems. "The government changed their policy and gave the closing date for the new town. I was only a young man then. I decided it was time to leave," Andrew reflects. The natural progression was into private practice, leading to the establishment of Andrew Martin Associates (AMA) in 1983.Under his leadership, the firm flourished, boasting a team of 45 with offices in Chelmsford, London, and Nottingham. The consultancy was acquired by Capita in 2009, a decision that turned out not to work for Andrew. Determined to rectify this, Andrew honoured his contractual obligations and then in 2012 embarked on a new venture - Andrew Martin Planning (AMP). This time, he aimed to create a smaller, employee-owned business. "We became an employee-owned trust (EOT) nearly three years ago," he proudly notes, and the company is now poised for growth following the new Government’s proposed planning reforms. "We've kept our heads above water and are looking to grow now following the drive to promote economic growth and radically increase the building of new homes. As I gradually step back, I am starting to nurture younger team members into leadership roles. But my policy has always been to bring in graduates, train them, and then bring them into management," he explains. Encouraging his team to seek guidance from experienced individuals, Andrew believes in the power of mentorship for personal and professional growth. He is delighted that most of his former graduates now hold directorships or run their own consultancies.Reflecting on leaders who he looked up to, a key figure in Andrew’s career was Alan Cherry, founder of Countryside Properties, who was a respected visionary in housebuilding and a member of the Urban Task Force. "He was a mentor who became a great friend of mine, and we worked closely together on a number of major strategic sustainable new communities, such as Beaulieu and Great Notley Garden Village" he recalls, highlighting Cherry's significant influence on his own leadership style.Thus, Andrew highlights the importance of having mentors and peers. "You often need inspiration from people," he notes, mentioning his friend Sir Rod Aldridge, founder of Capita, as another source of inspiration. AMP: Independent and Client-Focused Urban PlanningAMP prides itself on its complete independence, distinguishing itself from large firms. This independence ensures that AMP's sole focus remains on town planning and urban design, free from conflicting interests.AMP's personal approach is another cornerstone of its philosophy. "The person the client sees is the person they get all the way through the job," Andrew explains. This consistency ensures a seamless experience, with a dedicated lead managing the project from start to finish.Moreover, AMP is selective about the projects it undertakes. "We only take on projects that we feel have a reasonable prospect of success," Andrew notes. It is a careful vetting process that ensures AMP invests its resources in ventures that add genuine value to clients' assets, whether land or property.Despite its relatively small size, AMP has demonstrated its capacity to handle significant strategic projects. Notable developments include the Beaulieu sustainable new neighbourhood in Chelmsford and the new village for 3,500 homes at Bourn Airfield in Cambridgeshire. Acting as coordinators, AMP often leads large teams, ensuring comprehensive planning solutions.Navigating the Challenges of the Planning SystemThe current state of the planning system is a hot topic in the press, and Andrew is acutely aware of the issues. Reflecting on his early career with the New Town Development Corporation, he notes, "We prepared both the masterplan and neighbourhood plans for the town and granted permission under the New Towns Act. It was a one-stop shop that resulted in efficient and effective delivery of employment, homes and community facilities in relatively short timescales." Today, however, the landscape is far more complex, with multiple vested interests and significant under-resourcing in the public sector, resulting in unnecessarily expensive and considerable delays and lack of effective delivery and supply of homes. Andrew identifies political interference as a major obstacle. "There's been too much political interference, making it very difficult to navigate the system," he says. Nimby (not in my backyard) culture has exacerbated these challenges, stalling many developments due to political reluctance to make potentially unpopular decisions, despite their broader community benefits.Looking forward, Andrew hopes the new government will be successful in overturning these protectionist policies. He advocates for a more efficient and certain planning process, drawing attention to the need for professional advice to take precedence over political whims. "Decisions should respect and act upon professional advice rather than political whims," he asserts.With the new government, Andrew is cautiously optimistic about the future, buoyed by positive signals and economic forecasts. He believes the climate is becoming favourable for growth, particularly in the housing sector, which has a substantial multiplier effect on the economy. "The signs are all good, and we want to make the most of it," he states.Building a Lasting LegacyAndrew’s vision for his legacy centres on empowering his team and ensuring the firm's sustainability long into the future. "The legacy really is to build up the team," Andrew states. Having worked with some team members for nearly 25 years, Andrew has fostered a deep sense of loyalty and continuity within both the former AMA and new AMP. Since transitioning to an EOT model almost three years ago, Andrew has been preparing to pass the business over to his team. "They know the whole purpose of the EOT was to pass the business over to them over time," he explains. This gradual shift has encouraged team members to take a more active role in the business's operations and financial management, transforming AMP into a true team effort.Looking ahead, Andrew envisions expanding the firm's capabilities by potentially bringing in related disciplines. "We’re thinking about recruiting an ecologist," he mentions, noting the increasing demand for biodiversity expertise. While maintaining AMP’s primary focus on town planning, Andrew sees value in integrating complementary skills such as ecology, landscape, drainage and transport engineering. "These go hand in glove with urban design and the planning process," he adds.Ultimately, Andrew aims to build a highly effective and versatile team that will decide the company's future as he slowly steps back. "I see it being a very gradual process," he says, open to becoming a consultant to support his team when needed.&nbsp;</div>

Andrew Martin, founder of Andrew Martin Planning (AMP), is a distinguished figure in planning and development. Andrew has ensured the success of his employee-owned organisation through its selective procedure in the projects it undertakes, ensuring that each venture aligns with its vision of success and added value. 

In line with the employee-owned model, Andrew is preparing his team to take over, ensuring AMP’s legacy continues through its structure and future growth in complementary disciplines like ecology and transport engineering.

Andrew Martin: Steering the Course of Planning and Development

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">Patient-centred design is a crucial aspect of healthcare that has gained significant attention in recent years. It focuses on placing the patient at the centre of the healthcare experience, ensuring that their needs and preferences are prioritised to enhance their overall wellbeing. This article delves deeper into the concept of patient-centred design, its importance in healthcare, key elements, challenges in implementation, and the future trends that may shape its evolution. Definition and Principles of Patient-Centred Design Patient-centred design can be defined as an approach that empowers patients by actively involving them in the design, delivery, and evaluation of healthcare services. It is guided by a set of principles that include: <ol><li aria-level="1">- Respect for patient autonomy and dignity</li><li aria-level="1">- Recognition of the patient as a holistic individual</li><li aria-level="1">- Empathy and compassion towards the patient</li><li aria-level="1">- Effective communication and information exchange</li><li aria-level="1">- Inclusion of family and support networks in the care process.</li></ol>These principles serve as a foundation for creating healthcare experiences that are tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each patient.The Importance of Patient-Centred Design in Healthcare Research has highlighted several benefits associated with patient-centred design in healthcare. Studies have shown that patient-centred care leads to improved patient outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, reduced medical errors, and decreased healthcare costs.A patient-centred approach fosters better patient engagement, as it encourages patients to take an active role in their healthcare decisions. This engagement has been linked to better adherence to treatment plans and improved overall health outcomes.One example of patient-centred design in action is the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs allow patients to access their medical information online, empowering them to take control of their health and make informed decisions. Patients can review their test results, track their progress, and communicate with their healthcare providers through secure messaging systems.Strategic Design Thinking in Healthcare <a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/dmitry-broshkov">Dmitry Broshkov</a> is a seasoned digital technology expert and software engineer with a decade of experience in development, leadership, and research. He has held positions as a tech lead and CTO on projects initiated by Johnson &amp; Johnson, Oxford University, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and various other healthcare and innovative digital startups.Broshkov highlighted the experience of implementing patient-centred design at institutions such as the Helen Hamlyn Centre and Helix Centre, which are pioneers in implementing strategic design thinking in healthcare. The Helen Hamlyn Centre uses design research to improve quality of life by focusing on human-centred design in a variety of healthcare processes, covering areas such as hospital and emergency services, patient safety and mental health. The Helix Centre, a joint venture between Imperial College London and the Royal College of Art, also uses human-centred and behavioural design principles to create evidence-based solutions that improve health and healthcare. One of their notable projects, ReSPECT, is changing the approach to life-sustaining treatment by making difficult conversations and decisions more acceptable. This project is currently running in over 130 locations across the UK, demonstrating its effectiveness. Best Practices for Implementing Patient-Centred Design Involving patients and clinicians in the development processCollaboration is crucial to creating effective patient-centred software. Broshkov emphasises that this includes conducting focus groups, testing with users and feedback sessions. These methods help to ensure that the software truly serves users and meets their needs.Ensuring accessibility and usabilityAccessibility and usability are non-negotiable, especially in healthcare. Inclusive design and rigorous usability testing help make software usable for everyone.Use of data and analytics“Data and analytics play a crucial role in improving and enhancing patient-centred software,” says Dmitry. “In practice, tracking utilisation and health indicators helps us continuously improve and enhance these solutions, making them more efficient.”Impact on health outcomesAdopting a patient-centred approach can lead to significant improvements in health care outcomes, such as reduced re-hospitalisations, shorter hospital stays and fewer complications. Effective communication and information sharing between patients and providers facilitates decision-making and patient understanding of treatment options.Key Statistics Supporting Patient-Centred Design Emphasising cultural competence and diversity&nbsp;Patient-centred design considers and integrates cultural competence and diversity to ensure inclusive and culturally sensitive care.Key Statistic Health IT Analytics' 2023 Health IT Analytics study found that 78% of healthcare organisations have implemented or plan to implement patient-centric software solutions.&nbsp;Practices that implement such technologies see a 35% increase in patient satisfaction scores.&nbsp;According to Deloitte, these solutions can save up to $100 billion a year by improving efficiency and reducing re-hospitalisations.Potential Impact of Technology on Patient-Centred Design Technology is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of patient-centred design. Advancements in telemedicine, electronic health records, and healthcare data analytics have the potential to further enhance patient engagement, personalise care, and improve healthcare outcomes.“Implementing a patient-centred design approach is essential for modern innovative digital healthcare products because it ensures that we are creating solutions that truly meet the needs of patients,” explains Dmitry. “When patients are actively involved in the design, delivery, and evaluation of healthcare services, we can tailor our technologies to address their specific concerns and preferences. This approach leads to better patient engagement, improved adherence to treatment plans, and ultimately better health outcomes. In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital healthcare, it’s crucial to prioritise patient input to create tools that are not only effective but also user-friendly and empathetic to the patient experience.Dmitry continues, “By integrating advanced technologies such as AI-driven predictive analytics, personalizsed treatment plans using machine learning algorithms, and IoT-enabled remote monitoring devices, we can provide patients with proactive and highly personalised care. For example, AI can analyse vast amounts of patient data to predict health issues before they become critical, while IoT devices can continuously monitor vital signs and alert healthcare providers to any anomalies in real time. These innovations empower patients by giving them greater control over their health, fostering a more collaborative and informed healthcare environment, and enabling early interventions that can significantly improve health outcomes.”Despite challenges in implementation, patient-centred design is poised to shape the future of healthcare, with emerging trends and technological advancements paving the way for a more patient-centric healthcare system. </div>

Patient-centred design is a crucial aspect of healthcare that has gained significant attention in recent years. Dmitry Broshkov is a seasoned digital technology expert and software engineer with a decade of experience in development, leadership, and research. He has held positions as a tech lead and CTO on projects initiated by Johnson & Johnson, Oxford University, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and various other healthcare and innovative digital startups.

Transforming the Future of Healthcare Technology Through Patient-Centred Design

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">For<a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/paul-bowley"> Paul Bowley</a>, CEO of <a href="https://www.abbeycarefoundation.com/">Abbeycare Group</a>, perseverance, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth are core aspects of his career journey.<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-bowley-723056101/?originalSubdomain=uk">Reflecting on his early years</a>, Paul candidly shares, "My school life was interesting because I was in the top set for everything, but focus was a big problem for me." This struggle with focus, as it turned out, was due to undiagnosed ADHD, a revelation that came just a few months ago.But it was a heartfelt conversation with his grandfather that truly set him on his path. Sitting on a park bench, his grandfather impressed upon him the importance of education for a successful career. This support, rather than judgement, galvanised Paul to work harder, resulting in him passing all his GCSEs and subsequently excelling in his National and Higher National Diplomas.Paul’s first significant career opportunity arose through a recommendation from his college tutor, leading to a six-month contract. His initial encounter with leadership came here, where a major mistake on a project taught him the value of owning up to errors and the importance of supportive leadership. "I think this was possibly my first encounter with a good leader and the importance of learning from positive qualities in others," he notes. The fact that he owned up to the mistake immediately was a part of the reason his temporary contract was made permanent.Paul then moved on to work with David Jones, a role that spanned nearly a decade. By 2014, as Jones began to semi-retire, Paul entered a period of transition that led to his involvement with Abbeycare Group. Appointed as Managing Director in October 2015, he was tasked with turning around a company burdened with substantial debts and operational challenges. "We had to just roll our sleeves up," he says of those early, arduous days. Through sheer determination and a collaborative team effort, he led the company from the brink of collapse to a stable, thriving enterprise.Paul’s ability to be such a leader stems from his ability to use his extensive and varied past experiences. Learning to effectively communicate with high-level individuals was a crucial lesson he took from this early period. "You have to take a pragmatic approach with things now and again," Paul asserts. This pragmatism was particularly needed during a major relocation in 2021 when Abbeycare moved from North Lanarkshire to Renfrewshire within a tight nine-week deadline.Paul recalls the daunting challenge, but his approach was methodical and organised. “I reminded people that there will be certain things that are out of our control. If they're out of our control, there's nothing we can do about that. But what we can do is make sure that everything in our control is done."By instilling this mindset in his team, Paul ensured that the relocation was a success. He emphasises the importance of calmness and clarity during high-pressure situations, a lesson drawn from his past professional encounters. "You've got to pass that mindset on. If something doesn't happen and it's not down to us, there's nothing we can do about it. Let's get all the things we can do done, and hopefully everything else will fall into place."Transforming Lives Through RehabilitationAbbeycare Group, one of the longest established addiction treatment companies in the UK, is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary this October. Under the leadership of CEO Paul, Abbeycare has grown into a significant provider in the field of addiction treatment, employing around 100 staff and assisting over 500 individuals each year to begin their recovery journey.The organisation prides itself on delivering an exceptional evidence-based addiction treatment programme within a private, confidential, and safe environment. Paul underscores the importance of their approach: "We provide a chance for people to heal and recover." The impact of Abbeycare's approach is vividly illustrated through the stories of its clients. Paul shares the transformative journey of Emma, a former client whose life was on the brink of collapse. "But after coming to Abbeycare, she's now 16 months sober, has her children back, and volunteers for us," Bowley recounts.Abbeycare's success is built not only on its structured programs but also on the deep empathy and understanding of its staff. The team collectively holds 700 years of lived experience, with many members having walked the same paths as their clients. One compelling example of this is a staff member who, after completing Abbeycare's program, has returned to work in a senior position within the business. "It has gone full circle for him," Paul states, highlighting the powerful cycle of recovery and giving back that Abbeycare fosters.Paul's Call to ActionPaul is passionate about making rehabilitation more accessible to those in need. As he sees it, increasing accessibility to rehab services is crucial for addressing the ongoing addiction crisis, particularly in Scotland, where addiction is a key issue."In January 2021, the Scottish Government pledged £250m to improve and increase services for those affected by drug addiction," Bowley notes. This funding, set for a five-year term, aims to combat the high rates of drug-related deaths and provide much-needed support for addiction treatment. However, Bowley believes that more needs to be done. "We need to have more funding available and give more people access to treatment," he asserts.Paul’s call to action for policymakers is clear: ensure that rehab services are sufficiently funded and accessible to everyone who needs them, which, as Paul points out, ensures the effectiveness of programs. The existing funding, while significant, is not enough to meet the growing demand for addiction treatment. By allocating more resources to rehab services, policymakers can help save lives and give individuals the opportunity to recover and reintegrate into society.The need for increased funding and accessibility is not just about immediate treatment but also about long-term recovery and societal reintegration. "It's important to remember that harm reduction and stabilisation services play a vital role in keeping people safe, but for many people that should be seen as the foundation for long-term abstinence based recovery,” Paul explains.Reflecting on Paul’s LegacyAs Paul looks on his journey with Abbeycare, his thoughts on legacy are both humble and profound. He candidly shares that envisioning his current role was never part of his plan.One of the most rewarding aspects of his journey is witnessing the transformations that take place at Abbeycare. "I can go to work and watch people turning their lives around in front of my eyes," he shares. But Paul is quick to acknowledge that the critical work is done by his dedicated team. "I don't do the important work that gets done by my team," he says modestly, "but I make sure they've got everything they need to allow them to work to the best of their ability." September, designated as International Recovery Month, is a particularly special time for Bowley and Abbeycare. "We have two recovery gatherings which will be attended by between five and six hundred people, and they’re our former clients," Paul explains. These gatherings are filled with moments of joy and celebration, where former clients, now in recovery, reunite with the staff and each other. As Paul puts it, “these are by far the best days of the year because it validates the exceptional work my team does on a daily basis.”Reflecting on his legacy, Bowley is both proud and grateful. The institution he firstly saved and then helped build is not just a centre for treatment but a personification of hope and transformation. While Paul did not foresee himself in this role, his impact on the lives of those struggling with addiction is immeasurable.</div>

Discover Paul Bowley's journey from overcoming undiagnosed ADHD to becoming the CEO of Abbeycare Group. Through perseverance and resilience, Paul turned Abbeycare into a leading addiction treatment provider, helping hundreds start their recovery journey each year. Read about his inspiring leadership, the importance of accessible rehabilitation, and the transformative impact on clients' lives.

Paul Bowley: Transforming Lives with Abbeycare Group

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">In the bustling legal landscape of London, <a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/susie-barter">Susie Barter</a> exemplifies expertise and innovation in family law.&nbsp;"I've been a lawyer for 25 years and I trained in the City in family law. Looking back, I think I was fascinated with the interactions of people,” Susie states. This fascination led her to navigate through prestigious roles in London's prominent family law teams and serving as a judicial assistant at the Court of Appeal—an experience that provided invaluable insights into judicial processes.However, it was the intersection of her career and personal life that marked a significant turning point. Establishing her own firm, Personal Rose and Co Limited, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/susie-barter-114b48249/?originalSubdomain=uk">Susie</a> embraced a modern approach, serving clients globally from her base in Kent—a pioneering move well ahead of the remote work trend accelerated by COVID-19.The time came for Susie to contemplate taking a temporary step back from professional responsibilities. "After 25 years, I gave myself a year off," she shares, highlighting a pivotal moment of reflection. "But I was too young to retire," she laughs, her determination evident. This resolve brought her back to London, where an opportunity at <a href="https://www.childandchild.co.uk/">Child &amp; Child</a>, a venerable institution tracing its roots back to 1850, beckoned—an opportunity to build and lead a family law team as Head of Family Law."By heading the team at Child &amp; Child," Susie explains, her enthusiasm palpable, "I had the opportunity to build a team with the people I liked, and with the approach that I liked. It was an opportunity too good to miss."In her role, Susie has steered the firm through a transformative period under new ownership. "Child &amp; Child was bought in November 2022 by Adrian Biles and his family," Susie explains. His vision is to create a private client firm that services the full spectrum of private client needs," she continues, underscoring the firm's commitment to trust, integrity, and excellence as guiding principles. These values resonate deeply with Susie, aligning seamlessly with her own approach to client care—a philosophy rooted in holistic support rather than mere transactional service."My role also extends beyond overseeing the Family Law team," Susie explains. “It’s about integrating our expertise across disciplines to ensure our clients receive comprehensive support." She adds, "For me, it's vital to foster a team-based approach where every member understands the importance of exceptional client service." Susie’s LeadershipDrawing from her experience of running her own practice, she emphasises responsiveness, transparency and empowerment as pillars of client relationships. "If a client calls, you call them back that day," she says.Beyond the technical aspects of law, Susie underscores the human connection, a trait that has endeared her to clients who appreciate her accessibility and unwavering commitment. "Trust works both ways," Susie reflects warmly. "Whether I'm taking a call while riding a horse or ensuring a client in Dubai receives consistent care, it's about mutual respect and understanding."Navigating the intricate world of family law is no small feat, and Susie’s career is defined by facing and overcoming challenges with resilience and resourcefulness. As she reflects on her journey, she acknowledges that her transition from practitioner to entrepreneur brought its own set of hurdles. "There are challenges in learning to run a business when you’re a lawyer.” This dual role demanded not only legal acumen but also business savviness, a balance she embraced with determination. The weight of responsibility is a constant companion, especially when confronted with intricate legal matters and the high stakes of client representation. From compliance issues to complex litigation strategies, the buck stops with her. "There'll be times when there is nobody else to ask and it's my client and me."Yet, Susie's approach remained steadfast, relying on her own expertise while leveraging professional networks and external resources when needed. "You learn to have confidence in your own abilities to look things up and get it right," she asserts, echoing the blend of self-reliance and strategic collaboration that defines her practice.Personifying the “Ideal Leader” in the Legal SectorAt Child and Child, Susie embodies a blend of respect, empowerment, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. For Susie, respect is not just a token gesture, it's earned through leading by example and fostering a culture where mutual respect thrives. "Respect is earned by behaving in a way that you want your team to behave," she affirms.Central to Susie’s approach is empowering her team to grow by sharing knowledge and fostering a collaborative environment. "Your team will grow if you take the time to teach them," she notes, bringing to the fore her commitment to nurturing professional development within her team. This supportive approach allows team members to thrive, knowing they have the space to learn and excel under her guidance.While demanding excellence, she also believes in setting clear expectations and providing rationale behind decisions. "As a leader, it’s important to be prepared to take the decisions that need to be taken and to give direction," she explains. Transparency and communication are key, ensuring that everyone understands not just what needs to be done, but why it matters.Susie also underscores the importance of resilience and learning from setbacks—a principle that is championed at the independent prep school where she is Chair of Governors. “Our pupils are taught that you have to be prepared to fail in order to learn" she asserts, “We can all remind ourselves of that”. Envisioning a Legacy for the FutureApproaching the end of the conversation, Susie’s reflections on her legacy encapsulate a profound commitment to excellence and meaningful impact, both in her personal endeavours and within Child &amp; Child. "I would like to look back and know that what I did, I did well," Susie muses, underlining her dedication to performing her duties to the best of her ability. This principle, instilled in her own children as well, reflects her belief that any task worth doing is worth doing well, a perspective she carries into her leadership at Child &amp; Child.Her journey from running her own practice to leading at Child &amp; Child has reinforced valuable lessons in decision-making and adaptability. Taking on new roles, such as Chair of Governors at her children's former school, Susie has applied her skills in new contexts, demonstrating a versatility that underscores her belief that experience and knowledge is valuable in every setting "you will not find out if your skills are transferable unless you take opportunities as they arise" she states.Susie Barter's legacy, therefore, is not just about personal achievements but also fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and client-centred service that permeates both her professional endeavours and the institutions she influences.&nbsp;</div>

As Head of Family Law at Child & Child, Susie Barter builds and leads a dedicated team, emphasising a client-first approach and interdisciplinary integration. Under new ownership, Susie drives the firm's commitment to trust, integrity, and excellence, ensuring comprehensive support for clients. 

Susie Barter, Head of Family Law at Child  and  Child

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lortegad/?locale=en_US">Leo Ortega’s</a> career demonstrates the dynamic nature of the information technology industry and the power of continuous learning.&nbsp;From his early days in Mexico, where he studied IT and business administration at university, Leo has dedicated his professional life to the ever-evolving world of IT.Today, Leo stands at the helm of his own business, <a href="https://www.ppeak.com/">Peak &amp; Peak</a>, “we focus on IT software development and software implementations," he explains. This role marks a significant milestone in his career, allowing him to leverage his vast experience and drive innovation within the industry.His perspective on the IT sector is deeply informed by his hands-on experience. The rapid pace of technological advancements is a recurring theme in his career, one that he has embraced rather than resisted. This constant flux necessitates a proactive approach to staying current. "You need to keep an eye on what's coming up," Ortega advises. He underscores the importance of maintaining connections within one's sub-sector and never succumbing to complacency. Reflecting on his journey, Leo breaks down his experiences into two main categories: personal growth and the evolution of his current business. Upon arriving in the UK, Ortega had to build his network from scratch and learn how to navigate the complexities of a new business environment.Despite these obstacles, Leo found the UK to be an ideal setting for his ventures. "The UK is the most advanced country amongst the large economies in Europe when it comes to tech and digital initiatives. I think I landed in the right place."From a business perspective, Ortega’s current company thrives in an industry characterised by continuous innovation. "We are in an industry that never stops evolving," he says. "Companies come to us for solutions, advisory, help, and support. His partnership with a German firm also adds a unique dimension to his leadership role, necessitating constant adaptation to different business cultures. As such, Leo’s approach to these experiences is one of learning and growth. "Every experience is a good experience, even if it's not what you were expecting," he asserts. Embracing the role of a perpetual learner, he adds, "My wife describes me as a constant tourist. I enjoy everything, no matter where I am." This mindset has been crucial in his interactions with his German colleagues. "For me, it’s about learning how they react to certain situations and how they do things. Everything is a learning situation for me."Peak &amp; Peak: Driving Innovation in Software ImplementationAt the core of Leo’s success lies the company itself, Peak &amp; Peak. The company specialises in implementing CRM solutions primarily for commercial and marketing teams within large companies. While the agency serves a variety of industries, it has carved out a niche in the consumer goods sector. "We do have clients in other industries, but most of our clients belong to the consumer goods industry." This focus has allowed Peak &amp; Peak to develop a deep understanding of the specific needs and challenges faced by consumer goods companies, enabling them to deliver tailored solutions that drive significant value.Founded in Germany a decade ago, Peak &amp; Peak has gradually expanded its footprint across Europe. Ortega spearheaded the opening of the UK branch about a year and a half ago, although the company had presence prior to this. In addition to its operations in Germany and the UK, Peak &amp; Peak recently expanded to Portugal, where they have established an office and serve clients. The agency also has a presence in Spain and Central Europe, further broadening its reach and impact.With the COVID-19 pandemic significantly transforming the way businesses operate, Peak &amp; Peak has been at the forefront of this shift. "The world discovered that everyone can work from home," Ortega states. This realisation has allowed Peak &amp; Peak to tap into a global talent pool without the constraints of a physical office, "you can hire people from anywhere in the world, and you don't need to have an office.” Ortega’s vision for Peak &amp; Peak aligns with these broader trends. By embracing remote work and supporting tech hubs in smaller cities, Peak &amp; Peak is not only contributing to the growth of the IT sector but also driving socio-economic change. "You're giving opportunity to other parts of the population to boost growth across the country," Ortega concludes. The Essence of Leadership: Guiding, Learning, and PurposeFor Leo, the concept of an ideal leader is multifaceted, blending a mix of attributes that transcend traditional views of leadership. A cornerstone of Leo’s leadership philosophy is the willingness to guide rather than demand, as well as maintaining an open mind and being receptive to new ideas. This approach fosters an environment where team members feel supported and valued, rather than merely being given orders, and is key in bringing together various elements of talent to create a rounded structure.Beyond these qualities, Leo admires leaders who are driven by more than just financial success and recognise the importance of being purpose-driven. "The people that I admire the most have very little to do with making money," he shares. For Ortega, the true measure of a leader lies in their mission, vision, and contribution to their field. "I like to follow people who don't put revenue and profits as the first two goals, and instead are trying to achieve things other than just the commercial side," he concludes. As Leo looks ahead, his ambitions for Peak &amp; Peak are clear and ambitious. "In terms of the business, we are on a mission to become the number one digital agency for providing solutions in this space," he declares. This vision entails establishing Peak &amp; Peak as the go-to agency for consumer goods companies in need of software solutions for their commercial and marketing departments. "If a company in the consumer goods industry needs a software solution for their commercial force in their marketing departments, we want them to immediately think of Peak &amp; Peak."In achieving this goal, Leo’s philosophy underscores the power of small, positive changes. "Sometimes, you don't have to change the whole country or the whole city," he reflects. "You just change someone's life, and that probably will be enough." This perspective highlights his belief in the significance of individual impact and the ripple effect that one positive action can have.His own envisioned legacy is not about grand gestures but about creating a lasting and positive influence on those around him. "All it needs is that little spark," he concludes. This humble yet profound approach to leadership and legacy illustrates Ortega’s deep commitment to both personal and professional growth, aiming to inspire and uplift others along the way.Through his work at Peak &amp; Peak and his broader vision for the future, Leo strives to blend business success with meaningful, personal impact, leaving a legacy defined by positive change and continuous innovation.</div>

From studying IT and business in Mexico to founding Peak & Peak, a leading software development company, Leo Ortega's career exemplifies adaptability and growth, the fundamental pillars of the industry he operates in. Read how his experiences drive his company's success in the consumer goods sector. 

Bridget Rosewell CBE

Articles published by Bridget Rosewell CBE - Page 2

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