Marcus Hunter
CTO
EVRi
Marcus Hunter is the Chief Technology Officer for EVRi, a £2.7 billion, 7,000 employee organisation with 28,000 self employed couriers across the UK and in 200+ Countries.
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Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.
My career started as a civil engineer and I transitioned into the IT field as the digital revolution progressed. I have worked in various industries and ownership models, including Hermes (now known as Evri) as Head of Service and DevOps, where I was responsible for service, operations, app support, suppliers, and security. I was promoted to CTO, and I am now accountable for the technology strategy and value plan for Evri.
My responsibility covers architecture, cyber security, engineering, programme/project management, service, technology governance, and platform data. I have gained significant experience in cloud and digital platform provisions, including C2C, B2C, B2B, and large accounts. I have supported organisations through rapid growth, PE sale, a global pandemic, supply chain instability, and the onset of a recession. My diverse background has taught me to be adaptable and versatile, and to never give up in the face of adversity.
What is one of your guiding leadership principles?
Honesty is a very important quality to me, as it helps to gain trust and confidence. As a leader, mentor, and coach, building trust through honest everyday conversations helps both the business and individuals succeed amidst change.
What is the greatest challenge technology leaders face today, and how are you addressing it?
Managing the unknown involves navigating uncertainties with a strategic approach, which anticipates various scenarios and prepares for them. It's about selling the idea that, despite the unpredictability of the future, you need to plan for success by ensuring the business remains robust, adaptable, and sustainable. This means having a clear vision, setting achievable goals, but allowing for flexibility and innovation.
What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CIO?
Being confident in your ability to deliver what is expected of you stems from recognizing and trusting in the skills and experiences that have brought you to where you are today. It's about acknowledging your journey, the challenges you've faced, and the successes you've achieved along the way. This self-belief is crucial because it fuels your determination and drives you to continue striving for excellence.
Remember, confidence is not just about feeling sure of yourself; it's also about being prepared to handle whatever comes your way. It's the result of hard work, learning, and adapting. You've already proven that you have what it takes to succeed, so carry that confidence forward. Trust in your abilities, continue to learn and grow, and maintain the resilience that has served you well so far. Your journey is a testament to your capability, and believing in yourself is the key to unlocking even greater achievements in the future.
How do you measure success as a leader?
Personal sense of fulfilment and the alignment to the individual's values. Business led success will be around growth and customer satisfaction.
What is the value of being a member of the Evanta community?
Being a member of the Evanta community, as I see it, offers several benefits. The main one is building relationships with like-minded people who are experiencing similar challenges.
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