Both Brains’ 12th Birthday!

 

To celebrate our 12th year in business, we sat down with our Managing Director, Ryan Howard, for 12 questions! Join us as Ryan reflects on the journey, shares memorable moments, and gives us a glimpse into the future of our company. Enjoy the read and celebrate with us!

Reflecting on the Journey:

1. Ryan, can you take us back to the beginning? What inspired you to start this business, and how has the vision evolved over the past 12 years?

"Well, it all started with a simple idea to bridge the gap between technology and business needs. I saw an opportunity to create a company that not only provided top-notch IT solutions but also built strong partnerships with our clients. Over the past 12 years, our vision has evolved to include a broader range of services, from IT security to modern workplace solutions and cloud services. It's been an incredible journey, and I'm proud of how far we've come."

2. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in the early days, and how did you overcome them?

"In the early days, one of the biggest challenges was gaining the trust of our clients. We were a new player in the market, and we had to prove ourselves. We overcame this by consistently delivering high-quality services and building strong relationships with our clients. Our commitment to excellence and our client-centric approach helped us establish a solid reputation in the industry."

3. Our brand emphasises strong partnerships and a blend of logic and creativity. Can you share a story where these values played a crucial role in our success?"

"Absolutely! One of our most memorable projects was with NZ Sotheby’s International Realty, where we were selected as their exclusive IT provider. Our ability to blend logic and creativity allowed us to identify market gaps and introduce innovative solutions that met their evolving needs. This partnership not only strengthened our brand but also inspired us to onboard seven additional Sotheby's franchises nationwide."

4. Can you share a memorable moment or a proud achievement that you believe defines our journey as a company?

“One of the proudest moments was winning the Reseller News Innovation Award in 2023. This award recognised our commitment to driving customer innovation and excellence. It was a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, and it highlighted our ability to deliver outstanding digital transformations for our clients. We’ve been a finalist for seven tech awards in the last two years which is pretty special for a small business!"

5. What's the best part of working in an IT services business?

"The best part of working in an MSP is definitely the relationships we build with our clients. It's not just about providing IT solutions; it's about becoming a part of their journey. We've been invited to celebrate birthdays and weddings with our clients, which shows how deep and meaningful our relationships go. We don’t just do IT, we make a great cocktail too!"

6. What's one thing you like least about your job?

"Well, if I'm being honest, I haven't had a proper day off in 12 years! But you know what they say, 'Find something you love, and you'll never work a day in your life.' So maybe you could argue I’ve not worked a day either! I genuinely enjoy what I do, and the passion I have for this business, and the amazing businesses I get to work with every day keeps me going.”

7. On a personal note, how has leading this company impacted you as an individual and a leader?

"Leading this company has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It has taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the power of a strong team. I've grown both personally and professionally, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with such a talented and dedicated group of people."

8. What has been the most rewarding aspect of this journey for you?

"The most rewarding aspect has been seeing the positive impact we've had on our clients and our team. Knowing that we've helped businesses grow and succeed, and seeing our team members thrive and develop their skills, is truly fulfilling."

9. As we celebrate our 12th birthday, what are your hopes and aspirations for the next 12 years?

"I envision us continuing to innovate and expand our services to meet the ever-changing needs of our clients. I hope to see us become a leader in the IT industry, known for our excellence, creativity, and commitment to our clients. The next 12 years are going to be even more exciting, and I'm looking forward to the journey ahead."

10. How do you see the industry evolving, and what role do you envision our company playing in that future?

"The IT industry is constantly evolving, and I see a future where technology plays an even more integral role in business operations. Our company will continue to be at the forefront of this evolution, providing cutting-edge solutions and helping our clients navigate the complexities of the digital landscape."

11. If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice at the start of this journey, what would it be?

"I would tell myself to embrace the challenges and enjoy the ride. Every obstacle is an opportunity to learn and grow, and the journey is just as important as the destination."

12. Finally, what's one hobby or interest you have outside of work that people might be surprised to learn about?

“One hobby that people might be surprised to learn about is my love for flying. It all started when I got my pilot license for my paraglider, and from there, I was hooked. I upgraded to my heli license and eventually got my PPL pilot qualification. Flying all over New Zealand is an incredible experience, but the hills around Queenstown are my absolute favourite. Besides flying, I also enjoy anything fun and active like skiing, camping, and playing with the jetboat. It's a great way to unwind and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.”

Thanks Ryan, here’s to the next 12 years!