Business Systems Manager - 1993-1996

Selected and rolled-out new core systems.

De La Rue Card Technology were moving into a new phase of business when I joined them. The first challenge was to derive, stabilize and formalize the business model before suiting in-house and bought-in systems to it.

Project managed the development of credit card personalisation systems (including controls, safeguards and security systems) to be used in-house. Developed systems for handling bank customer data inflows and Management Information and marketing reporting on data utilization, working with the financial institutions. Carried out due diligence on a competitor prior to take over, i.e. modelling competitor’s business to match with DLRCT business model. Member of in-house business intelligence team looking for areas of business development and competitor vulnerability. Developed strategic internal administration and information systems to improve profits by reducing costs by minimising the labour element of routine administration and data processing and by creating competitive advantage through better information, reporting and analysis. Implemented a “Data Warehousing” solution written entirely in house.

This was a high profile proactive role that involved raising the awareness of IT and IT benefits across all levels of the business, understanding and disseminating knowledge of the working of credit/debit card operations of major financial institutions, taking the initiative in identifying areas of potential cost savings and profit improvement and recommending solutions, and working on the initial development of DelPhic smartcards.

It involved providing the tools, training, consultancy, data control, data administration and support to allow individuals at every level within the company to make the best use of the systems and information available, including preparing, monitoring and delivering detailed training plans. My responsibilities included supervising the company Local Area Networks and software and hardware selection, evaluation, maintenance and support, selecting appointing and controlling third party suppliers, and creating the IT/IS manual for ISO9000 (trained as ISO9000 auditor).

Project Manager
Programme Manager
Business Analyst
Consultant
Change Manager