Member Article

Growing tech firm celebrates major milestone

A local firm borne out of the global financial crisis has celebrated a major milestone, marking 10 years in business.

Newcastle-based software development consultancy Scott Logic, was founded with a headcount of three on September 26th, 2005, by Managing Director Gary Scott. The company, which still specialises in providing software solutions to the global financial sector, now employs more than 180 members of staff across four UK city offices.

Gary started Scott Logic after a successful IT career in investment banking. His vision was to build a UK-based software consultancy, harnessing the development talent to be found in the regions, to build world-class software for large and complex clients, such as those in the finance sector, in London and other major enterprise hubs.

Because of Gary’s experience and expertise in global finance, the business’ first client was US banking giant Lehman Brothers, one of the main casualties of the financial crisis. Luckily, Gary had had the foresight to begin to diversify before the 2008 credit crunch, so through teamwork and sheer hard work, Scott Logic managed to weather the storm.

Gary said: “I was fortunate to be able to rely on a fantastically smart team at Scott Logic. By 2008, we had grown to a staff of around 20 across Newcastle and Edinburgh, all of whom went the extra mile to help Scott Logic not just to survive, but to prosper.

“Many, many hours were put in by a small group of dedicated, talented and truly passionate individuals, a number of whom I am proud to say remain with the company, and I’d like to extend my gratitude to them, on behalf of everyone at Scott Logic.”

Mike Smith is one member of staff that has been with Scott Logic for almost the entire decade, having joined on October 10th, 2005, following the completion of a PhD at Durham University. He said:

“It still feels like it originally did, friendly and open, and like a small company. I think that’s central to the culture here, but whether you’ve been here for years or are new to the team, your opinion counts, no matter what job title you have.”

Mike, who works as a Lead Developer said he never considered looking for work elsewhere despite the uncertainty of the financial crisis. He added: “I enjoy the company and the people. It’s very collaborative and everyone shares their ideas. I’ll be here hopefully for a long time yet.”

Scott Logic is rapidly expanding and has ambitious plans to grow further, with current vacancies across software development, testing, user experience design and project management.

Gary added: “I am immensely proud, not just of reaching our 10th anniversary, but also of keeping such amazing talent in the region, rather than losing it to London and the South East. Hopefully the next decade in business will be even more exciting than the first!”

For more information on Scott Logic and its services, visit scottlogic.com.

ENDS

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Jule Wilson .