Phil Parkin - IT/Marketing Services
Having worked in the computer industry for most of my professional career, initially on the more technical and then business design side and latterly in software and systems sales, I felt the need to move on from my position as a Director of a systems software company and go out on my own.
Initially, I went into Business Design and Project Management for a leading provider of Mobile Applications Management systems (mainly for use by field engineering teams for large companies and utilities). But I really wanted a larger client base with a greater variety of issues. I wanted to get involved with smaller businesses.
I found that my overall knowledge and breadth of experience enabled me to contribute in ways that many companies offering services in specific areas like web design could not. Also, because I am in a position to carry out a lot of diverse activities myself, I could keep the costs down for my clients.
I now offer a more rounded approach and a broader range of higher level marketing services for smaller businesses, whilst still providing the essentials like website design and build and marketing materials.
I bring a "no-nonsense" easy to understand approach to the issues of using computers in business and development of marketing strategies and material.
I have supplied systems, consultancy, and designed systems, managed and implemented projects for companies small and large. To name drop some of the larger ones from the past, a selection is British Telecom, ING Bank (Netherlands), BMW, EDF (former London Electricity), Southern Water, More Than (former Royal Insurance), Hoover, Scottish Amicable, ICL/Fujitsu – and so on!....
Some of my more recent and smaller customers are in diverse sectors including Financial, Distribution, Writing, Art, Leisure, Legal and Architecture.
At the detail level, quality and accuracy is what drives me. But broadly, I find it really important to get to know my customer and their business or profession so that I can contribute at a higher level.
When I am not working, I enjoy keeping reasonably fit and in shape. Just because I feel better that way.
After the fitness bit and when I am not working, you will probably find me down the pub or bar enjoying a beer and having a chat. I like socialising over a pint or a meal with some wine. And if I am not doing that or working, I am travelling to see old friends, acquaintances or colleagues.
I have been working with computers overall for too long to mention. But have been on my own for 7 years and for the last 4 or 5 of those have been engaged in IT Marketing Support.
I grew up in a leafy part of North London, but now live (with my partner Linda) in more central London near Swiss Cottage, where most of my friends are.
Notwithstanding the professional need to be seated at the computer a fair bit, I would hate to have to give up my social lifestyle.
My partner tells me I can be a bit intense and exacting when I am up against a deadline to produce work, but I like to think that I am harder on myself than anyone else under those circumstances.
Apart from "I've paid your Invoice" the words I like to hear from my customers are "business is good now", "I can talk to you – you understand" and "you are good at what you do".
