Today marks ten years since I joined risual – now part of Node4 – a milestone that’s prompted a bit of reflection.
Not “institutionalised” – just evolving
Ten years is a long time in any role – especially in tech. At the interview back in 2015, I was asked if my previous 9.5-year tenure meant I was “institutionalised”. I pushed back – not because I’d stayed in one company, but because I’d held a variety of roles and worked with a broad range of end clients. That kept things fresh.
That same pattern has played out in my current employment. I started out at risual as a Consultant (that was the rule, regardless of background – everyone joined as a Consultant). From there, I moved into an Architecture role, and then – somewhat reluctantly – into management. I didn’t chase people leadership, but faced the choice: manage or be managed. Leading the Architecture team brought new challenges – and more than a few grey hairs.
A new chapter with Node4
After risual was sold in 2022, I found myself on a new path again – and in 2023 I moved into Node4’s Office of the CTO. This is not my first time in an OCTO and it’s a role that plays far more to my strengths, drawing together technical insight and strategic thinking, and communicating that to clients and colleagues alike.
Of course, my tenure hasn’t all been smooth sailing. At one point quite early on, I was told (by one of risual’s founding directors) that I was “approaching career peak”. I’ve never quite accepted that – not out of vanity, but because I know I still have more to contribute. Maybe I’ve lost some of the naivety of my 20s, but I’ve gained a more seasoned, grounded view.
Big ambitions, bumpy roads
I joined risual because I wanted to escape the constraints of a large enterprise and make a difference. And I believe I did – even if not always as effectively as I’d hoped. Some moments had real impact; others came with frustration. Anyone who’s lived through rapid business growth (followed by contraction), a global pandemic, and a business sale will understand the pressure. Strong personalities, shifting priorities, and an increasing focus on EBITDA all shaped that period.
But I learned a huge amount in those years – about myself, about the business, and about the kind of leader I am (and want to become). I worked with some brilliant people and saw first-hand how good – and bad – decisions shape real organisations.
From grief to growth
After the sale to Node4, some colleagues grieved the loss of the risual they knew. Others struggled to adapt – something I’ve also seen in other acquired businesses. But one colleague said something that stuck with me: “going somewhere else won’t bring risual back – risual no longer exists – but you can stick around and see what you can make of the new opportunity.”
That struck a chord. I’d already chosen to stay – not to chase what was lost, but to build something new at Node4. It hasn’t always been easy, but I feel like I’m in a good place again. I’m using my skills in ways that have real impact. I’m working with great people. And I’m helping to shape the direction, not just responding to it.
Celebrating the journey – and looking ahead
Ten years on, I’m not “institutionalised”. If anything, I’ve become more aware of the need to adapt, stay curious, and choose work that aligns with my values and strengths.
I’ve had the privilege of working with fantastic people, navigating all kinds of challenges, and growing along the way. It’s been a decade full of lessons, laughter, the occasional sigh of exasperation – and more than a few late-night slide decks.
And now? I’m proud of what I’ve done so far – and excited for what’s still to come.
Here’s to ten years… and the next chapter still to be written.
Featured image by ChatGPT.
