Doing business with Stuart Alexander of Origin

Title: COO, Origin

Twitter handle: @sabearing

How long have you been in your current role? I’ve been operating in this role for around seven months now, but have been on Origin’s advisory board since 2012.

What business technology issue is your organisation focusing on? We look after the New Zealand mid-market: i.e companies who need the benefit of secure and powerful future technologies from a supplier who treats all users of technology with the care and attention they deserve.

What are your interests away from work? I love following and supporting my children’s sports, playing golf, and surrounding myself with entrepreneurial minded people and companies.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Work hard and be kind to your mother.

Professionally, who do you admire most? Entrepreneurs; anyone who has the balls to get out there and chase their dreams.

[I admire] Entrepreneurs; anyone who has the balls to get out there and chase their dreams.

How long have you been working in your field? How did you get into your role? I have been working in IT for 28 years, and have spent the last 12 years in general management and advisory roles. I’ve been involved with Origin for the past three years, and have seen the huge opportunity and potential of the company, so I was keen to step up to take on a more operational role when asked by the CEO, Michael Russell.

If you weren’t working in your field, What would you be doing? An architect designing cool houses.

Can you share one key pointer for keeping abreast of business technology trends? Read lots, make sure you attend international events to get insights from outside your networks; listen. I find it really easy to surround myself with people who are smarter than I am.

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