ENGINEERING A SUCCESSFUL CAREER WITH LIFELINE IT

Managing multiple, complex IT projects is just a standard working day for Lifeline IT’s Head of Engineering Neil Layton.

We talk to Neil about his role and how things have changed in the world of IT since he started out.

What is your role at Lifeline IT?

I’m responsible for managing all the engineers – both remotely and in the field – and liaising with clients and making sure they’re up to date on what’s happening and when. Engineers make up the majority of our staff and they’re a great team to work with.

What’s the most challenging aspect of the job?

The changing pace of technology. You can install a piece of software one day and then the next day, there’s been an update and what you’ve installed is suddenly out of date, particularly with all the new Cloud technology that’s being released. We constantly need to keep up to speed on new updates and upgrades so we can adapt systems and keep them running smoothly.

What do you enjoy about the role?

I’d say it’s the variety – working with the different engineers and getting to know them personally is something I enjoy. It’s very much a family environment at Lifeline IT and you’re always happy to be at work.

What did you do before you joined Lifeline IT?

I’ve always been interested in IT and tech and have worked in the sector ever since I left school – my GSCEs and A-levels were all in IT-related subjects. Before joining Lifeline IT, I was both a field and helpdesk engineer in an IT company that worked in domestic and business sectors. I also spent 18 months working for Openreach (part of BT).

As an IT fan, do you have a favourite tech item?

I think it would have to be the camera phone – it’s so undervalued in terms of what it can do. It’s quite incredible to think that not that long ago you had to use an analogue camera with 28 exposures and now you have access to unlimited photos via your phone. The camera phone has been particularly helpful in the work environment – we use it all the time to diagnose faults and update clients on progress.

What’s your proudest achievement whilst working at Lifeline IT?

Working my way up through the company and being given opportunities to progress is something I’m particularly proud of. I’m only 34 years old and to be Head of Engineering feels like a real achievement. I’m grateful to everyone, especially Daniel and Adam, who have been on my progression path and pushed me to achieve my goals.

And finally, what do you enjoy doing when you’re not in work?

A year and a half ago I took up photography and I’m really enjoying it. I primarily photograph landscapes and wildlife, it’s just a hobby, but I have been approached to sell some of my shots which is very flattering!

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