Digital tech firm Synergi was co-founded by Peter Joynson in 2013 after 26 years in the technology industry. The firm has since grown to offer automation services, cyber security and artificial intelligence services, among others. It operates across the UK from its Gateshead headquarters.
What was your first job (and how much did it pay)? I started in the then family business - Tyne and Wear Office Supplies and I think it was £50 a week.
What is the best advice or support you’ve been given in business? To always do the job right, to be transparent and honest and build lasting partnerships based on trust… oh, and keep an eye on cash flow!
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What are the main changes you’ve seen in your business/sector, and what are the challenges you’re facing? Hiring the skills required in our focused practice areas has been tougher in the last 12 months. That said we’ve grown by 15 staff in 2022 and expect to do the same in 2023. They are out there, just more difficult to find. We’ve introduced some excellent employee benefits this year, more than ever before, so that’s helping.
How has the pandemic changed the way you work? Significantly, not just in the way our team work now, which is more flexible, home and office based more than ever before, but also in the demands for the products and services we deliver to our clients. The technology market was and still is in high demand as businesses modernise and reposition themselves for the future.
Who is your role model in business? Although not in business anymore, but in retirement, my father Ray set me some very good foundations and rules, to do the right thing every time, or don’t do it at all!
What would your dream job be? Pro golfer, getting paid for something that is a hobby to most would be great.
What advice would you give to someone starting out a career in your sector? Do as many qualifications as you can, build your value in the marketplace. Try to get in to the future technology areas, such as AI, robotic process automation, also cyber security is a hot topic to be expert in too.
What makes the North East a good place to do business? It’s a region of high integrity, hard working and in the main ‘can do’ people that like to work with likeminded business cultures.
How important is it for business to play a role in society? It has a huge role to play, business generates the products and services required for social survival, provides employment, wages income (and taxes) required to drive our economy and social care.
Outside of work, what are you really good at? Well l like playing golf and tennis, but wouldn’t say I was really good at either to be honest, nor would those I play with!
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