Russell Fry

Part of the IT Leaders 100 - a list of the most influential IT leaders in the UK in 2024.

Russell aims to be a supportive leader, a caring father, and someone that looks to always further themselves. He has built a number of trusted networks over the years, and believes it's the relationships you foster and guidance you give that will benefit us all in the future.

How did you get into IT?

My secondary school wanted to offload DOS 3.11 computers so I gladly took one and installed it pride of place in my parents living room. I progressed into teaching classmates and then left to work for IBM in London for 2 years which I loved.

What do you consider your greatest IT achievement of the last 12 months?

Inspiring confidence in the team that they ARE award worthy, with Karen [Byer] winning the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Leader of the Year award at Computing and BCS's most prestigious IT event in November! When you reach a point in your career, you have to appreciate it's no longer about you but the team - they are the ones that are the true superstars.

How do you ensure diversity is taken into account in your IT recruitment?

We've re-written JD's, posted internal and external comms, run a very fair year-end performance management and promotions process and generally try to celebrate whenever we can. It took us over a year to find the right person for a recent CRM role, and I am so glad we took our time to find Kelsey! It's Megan, Abigail, Denise, Saritha and Kelsey in particular that are pushing the firms IT development in the CRM space forwards!

Which technology are you currently most excited by, and why?

I'd like us to focus on AI in terms of improving Service Delivery. We are pretty good at low-code, and are part of the Microsoft EAP for CoPilot (which our clients love!), but I would really like to see further improvements in this area.

What would an outsider find the most surprising part of your job?

I recently hosted Issy on our 'Shadow a Leader' initiative organised by the Women's Network and both of us loved it! I think Issy would say she learnt just how varied and demanding my job is, but know's that I try and do it in a balanced and supportive way. I for one enjoyed having her ride shot-gun and the opportunity to ask her questions on diversity within PA and the wider industry.

What's your secret talent?

After many, many years of denial, I "enjoy" running now and have swapped my cycling cleats for a pair of Nikes. I take some guidance from my unofficial trainer, who has been very supportive in getting me through my first 10k and half marathon so far this year.

What makes you laugh?

My three daughters at dinner time - especially my six year old, who says things with such brutal honesty.