.png?width=260&height=260&name=Just%20a%20Minute%20with...%20(2).png)
Name: Alan Lilley
Job Title: Assistant Software Support Manager
My background: I started my career in ERP back in 2000, smack bang in the middle of the Dot-Com bubble looking to be part of one of those companies with slides, swings, and ping-pong tables in the foyer. But you’ve got to start somewhere, so I spent my early days as a 1st line Application Support Consultant for XKO Software (still using green screens at the time).
I quickly developed my knowledge and moved from 1st Line to 2nd and after a few years moved into an on-site Consultancy role, training new and existing customers on the Xeres ERP system and its ancillary products.
In 2005 I joined Blue Rock Systems as a founding member of staff, helping the business get off the ground and supporting several different ERP systems including the new (to me at the time) Intact applications. This was a joint role between Support and on-site Consultancy introducing customers to Intact V-line, Intact iQ and our ancillary product now known as inDocs, as well as providing continued support for Xeres, Microsoft Nav/Business Central, Datafile and even dabbling in Operating Systems and Infrastructure until our Nottingham office came to be.
In 2017, I became the Assistant Software Support Manager, managing our team of front line and escalation staff in the Intact UK Southampton Office.
24 years since my journey in ERP began, I still do not have access to a slide, swing, or ping-pong table, but I do have access to a pool table when I visit our Hemel Hempstead office.
What’s the first app you check in the morning? My morning wouldn't be complete without firing up my phone and checking out BBC News. I usually start with the headlines, then delve in for a deeper look at the top stories. Next, I check my local news app, followed by a quick scan of io9 for any updates on the latest movie and tv rumours (I'm a nerd!). Finally, I head over to Kotaku or Eurogamer to see what's buzzing in the gaming world (I really am a nerd!!)
What’s your favourite travel location? My wife’s previous work with a cruise company had its perks! Exploring the stunning fjords of Norway and the vibrant cities of the Iberian Peninsula was incredible, not to mention at amazing prices. But the most unforgettable experience was our two-week cruise around Norway, culminating in witnessing the Midnight Sun in Svalbard above the Arctic Circle. It was surreal. It threw our sleep schedules out of whack – we found ourselves eating late at night, seeing a show and going for drinks out on deck at 1am, whilst the Sun still hung in the sky like it was three in the afternoon.
Are you a coffee or tea person? Depends on the mood and location. Tea at home, coffee at work.
What are the three items you would take to a deserted island? A Nintendo Game Boy Advance, a flash cartridge with every Game Boy and Game Boy Advance game released, and a lifetime supply of batteries. Why?! Tetris, Mario and Zelda, need I say more.
What’s on your bucket list? My fascination with Japan began over 35 years ago, sparked by the pixelated worlds of the Nintendo Entertainment System (which, amazingly, still graces my home office TV!). Lockdown reignited that passion, fuelled by countless hours spent exploring the vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine through the insightful YouTube videos of Chris Broad, Tokyo Creative, and CDawgVA. The itch to experience it all firsthand has become an insistent whisper, and I'm now planning a family adventure to the Land of the Rising Sun sometime later this year or early next!
Spring, Summer, Autumn or Winter? I’m a Summer baby……. so, it must be Autumn 😉 No-one in their right mind likes the heat, right? Golden sunsets, trees changing colour, cooler weather, Halloween just around the corner. What more could you want?
What’s your favourite thing about your job? The best part of my career has been the amazing people I get to work with, both colleagues and clients. Over the past 24 years, I've built friendships with many of them, which makes coming to work even more rewarding. While providing support can be demanding, even a simple "thank you" from a client brightens my day. To everyone who takes the time to show their appreciation, I want to express my sincere gratitude. Your continued trust in us motivates us to deliver the best service possible.
