In this week’s episode of Akoni Tech Talks, Jamie Marshall, the Co-Founder and Director of tech company Evron, shares his journey from employee to entrepreneur, offering insights on tech’s evolving role in business. Unlike a traditional startup story, Jamie and his co-founder took over their company through a management buyout, driven by a desire to reshape its direction. Over time, they narrowed their focus, specialising in Microsoft B2B services, a move that aligned with their broader vision for Evron. 

Jamie’s early interest in technology began at school, where he found himself drawn to computers and problem-solving. His path led him to a career in tech, with various part-time jobs and hands-on experiences that eventually fueled his ambition to run his own business. 

A central theme of the episode is how COVID-19 drastically accelerated tech adoption. Jamie notes that even the most traditional sectors, like law, were forced to embrace digital solutions, especially for remote work. This shift underscored the critical role of technology in keeping businesses operational. 

Jamie also highlights the contrast between regulated and non-regulated sectors regarding tech adoption. While regulated industries have compliance incentives to keep up with advancements, non-regulated businesses often stick with what works, even if it’s outdated. According to Jamie, leadership’s mindset is key to driving innovation, regardless of the industry. 

Evron is at the forefront of automation and AI, aiming to streamline IT support by automating routine tasks like ticket triaging and onboarding. Jamie explains that this approach reduces costs and enhances job satisfaction by freeing employees from repetitive tasks. While automation is promising, he acknowledges the challenges of implementing it in traditional sectors, emphasising the importance of early stakeholder engagement. Evron’s partnerships enable them to offer specialised tech solutions, particularly for clients in underserved industries. These collaborations support Evron’s mission to help clients modernise and improve efficiency. 

Finally, Jamie reflects on the value of industry accolades, such as his recognition in Yorkshire’s “42 under 42” and Evron’s spot in the “Digital Enterprise Top 100.” While he’s honored, he sees these achievements as tools to build credibility, helping the business attract new clients and stand out in a competitive market. 

In this episode, Jamie’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the future of tech, automation, and digital transformation. 

Tune in to Akoni Tech Talks for the full conversation and more insights from industry leaders – available on Spotify Podcasts,Apple Podcasts and YouTube.