It’s no secret that the global tech sector is advancing at an astonishingly rapid pace – not least in relation to the now integral role of digital transformation in spearheading growth and success. But no matter the size or scope or your organisation – or how sophisticated your innovation strategy is – the only way to drive significant change is to leverage the power of people.

So, to champion some of the industry’s finest talent, and gain some insight into the minds of individuals from across the tech space, we’re inviting friends and partners of the business to take part in our quickfire Q&A.

Up next, it’s Gary Saunders, managing director at CloudCoCo…

Tell us about your role at CloudCoCo and the part you play in the tech sector.

I have such a vast range of responsibilities, but some key elements of my role include overseeing the sales function, as well as CloudCoCo website enhancements, and developing our managed service function.

We’re a people-led business with a skilled team of experts who help customers gain a competitive edge. We supply modern, innovative IT solutions that underpin and support crucial business activities, whilst putting power back into the hands of customers.

What innovation was the turning point for your organisation, to get it to where you are now?

Throughout the course of our journey, we’ve had a number of key acquisitions that have taken us from the two-person company CloudCoCo was in 2018, to an industry leading organisation with a strong team of technical and customer-focused specialists.

And where’s next for your business?

There is still work to be done to enable the Group to reach its full potential, and the macro-economic environment remains unpredictable. But with the hard work that has taken place to lay the foundations for sustainable and profitable growth in the future, we are confident of continued progress in the second half and moving into FY23.

The biggest misconception faced by the tech sector is…

At the moment, it’s the fact everyone believes everything is about cloud.

While cloud has a major place in every successful tech strategy, people think it’s the only option. In reality, hybridity is the epitome of innovation, combining the benefits of traditional services, managed IT, and the cloud – rather than solely focusing on one element.

What do you think will be the biggest tech trend over the next 12 months?

People maximising the infrastructure and licencing they already have – and if this isn’t a key trend, it should be.

Microsoft is constantly evolving and as such, there are limitations on certain licencing which can have a real impact on business. Instead, it’s about maximising use and really hammering home the education piece.

Plus, in a time where cash is king for many, people are reluctant to spend money – if organisations make the most of what they already have and rinse their existing tools of their true worth, they’ll be in good stead.

What top tip would you give to an individual trying to excel in their tech career?

Be a sponge, soak up knowledge, and keep an open mind. There are so many people to learn from in this industry – don’t take the opportunity to seek advice for granted.

The next purchase on my personal tech wish list is…?

I’d love an electric car, but I’d say my personal goals are naturally driven by the business.

And what is your earliest memory of tech in your life?

Mobile phones – specifically, a flip-up Motorola StarTAC with a huge aerial. I worked with this kind of tech a lot in my early career.

What is one longstanding piece of tech you are shocked is still used today?

I’m amazed that people still use tape drives rather than having cloud backup. They’re so easy to damage or misplace, so there’s a significant risk of data loss.

For me it’s a no-brainer to leave tape drives in the past, but I think sometimes people are too reluctant to break old habits – even if it comes with such high stakes!

If you are without the internet for an hour, what would be the first activity you resort to, to pass the time?

I’d listen to talkSPORT on the radio and catch up with the latest – whether it’s football, cricket, rugby, or anything really.

I’ve always been a sporty person, and it’s such easy listening.