Tim B.

From insurance sales consultant to directing programmes of change

Having fallen into insurance fresh out of university, my first big move was to switch from sales to IT. I wanted more intellectual challenge in my work and felt that business systems analysis would provide that challenge... it did, however it turned out to be a step on the path to project and programme management and ultimately becoming a programme director. My next big move was to leave employment and to work for 22 years as a contractor/interim programme director - what an adventure that was! Working in banking, insurance and a stock exchange, the highlight was a 4 year stint in Zurich delivering the programme that resulted in the overhaul of the trading platform at the Swiss Stock Exchange. My most recent (and hopefully final) big move came last year when I returned to employment and joined Phoenix. Phoenix is a fabulous place to be if you enjoy a dynamic, growing and changing environment where uncertainty is the norm. I love it here and regularly tell my friends and family how happy i am to be here!

I direct programmes of major model change essential for our strategy

One of the key considerations underpinning Phoenix's strategy is efficient and effective use of capital to drive acquisitions and new products whilst being sure that existing commitments to customers and shareholders are not compromised. Central to that balance is a set of complex models that enable us to assess risks and different scenarios that mean that we can demonstrate we are comfortable that we're meeting our obligations whilst keeping within our risk appetite. The programmes I direct are the programmes that change the models. Sounds quite simple, but they're quite complex, every programme runs over multiple years and typically costs tens of millions of pounds.

Leading large, complex programmes with great teams

I love change! The past 30 years of my working life has been all about change and Phoenix is the best place I've ever worked. Understanding the objectives, building a plan and developing a team to deliver change are all great. However, my real passion is the delivery of change, seeing programmes through to the end and seeing how the change makes a difference.

Follow your heart

Notice how you feel about what you're doing and about how you're doing it. If it feels right then stick with it... if not adjust, notice how you feel and keep adjusting until it feels right.

Transforming the trading platform at the Swiss Stock Exchange

Over four years and for a budget of £40m I lead the programme that transformed the technology and supporting processes upon which the trading platform at the Swiss Stock Exchange is run. Why is this my greatest achievement? Four years is a long time to run a programme of change, to keep everyone focussed on the outcomes and to maintain motivation, especially during the year plus period of testing... we had to be sure that rolling out the new technology would not affect the availability of the Stock Exchange services... and we did it! A massive team effort from 100+ located across the globe and Zurich is a great place to live for four years, that was fun too!