Each month we turn the spotlight on the leadership teams in our portfolio to find out what drives them, who inspires them and the biggest lessons they’ve learnt.
This month, we’re delighted to welcome BCN’s CEO, Rob Davies.
Based in Manchester, BCN is a UK-focussed IT managed and cloud services provider. It supports over 1,000 clients to deliver and manage business-critical technology solutions to over 30,000 users. Rob has been at BCN since 2020, becoming CEO in January 2022.
Q: Which one rule do you expect your employees to abide by?
We have a number of sayings such as “Think Customer” and “Collaborate internally, compete externally”, but in reality, for employees it’s about humility and respect. Treating each other with respect and maintaining humility both support a positive work environment.
Q: What motivates you?
My motivation stems from multiple sources. Firstly, my family provide support and encouragement. Secondly, my colleagues inspire me to excel. Lastly, the drive to build an industry-leading and successful business – one that I can be proud of.
Q: What are you most proud of in your career?
There are number of things – from winning business and building successful propositions – I’ve been fortunate to be a part of some great teams in my career. However, being appointed as the CEO of BCN Group remains my proudest moment. It reflects both my personal growth and the trust placed upon me by the business.
Q: Who do you admire / who inspires you?
People who succeed over adversity. If you read some of the stories of Victoria Cross winners and the sacrifices they made, their journeys are truly inspiring. Sport has had a big influence on my life, in particular, Rugby. Richie McCaw, All Black captain, won 88% of his 99 test matches as captain, including two back-to-back world cups, he’s truly an inspirational leader and player.
Q: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt?
Never assume! Assumptions can lead to misunderstandings, missed opportunities and ineffective decision-making.
Q: What do you think makes a good leader?
For me, leadership is about inspiring and empowering others, while upholding the values and standards of the organisation.
Q: Why did you choose ECI?
We chose ECI for several reasons. Their knowledge and track record in our sector were impressive. Equally important, was their conduct during the process—it revealed their personality and organisational culture. We recognised shared values, which will bring the best out in BCN.
Q: What do you do to relax?
Walking my working cocker spaniel, Talisker – she needs a lot of exercise! I’m a (very) occasional gym-goer and have recently become a ‘beginner’ padel tennis player. I enjoy following my three sons around the UK and further afield, watching them all play rugby.
Q: Night in or night out?
Friday Night out, Saturday Night in! I can’t manage two nights out on the bounce these days.
Q: Favourite film?
You can’t beat a bit of swashbuckling adventure – therefore it has to be “Master and Commander” by Peter Weir.
Curriculum Vitae
- Age: 52.
- Family: Wife, Sarah, three sons, Will (22), Alex (20) and Ollie (18).
- University & qualification: Hull University, BH (Hons) Business Studies
- Career summary: Sales Director, Chief Revenue Officer, Managing Director, CEO across Digica, Computacenter, Pulsant & BCN Group
