HASSELL CIO calls it quits

CIO of international design and planning firm HASSELL, Bill Rue, has called it quits after more than five years heading up the company’s IT team.

The firm runs a network of 12 design studios across Australia and Asia, which focus on a number of key disciplines including architecture, interior design, landscape architecture and planning.

“I have enjoyed my time at HASSELL very much and I am particularly proud to have led the technology team at HASSELL at a time which has arguably been our most successful ever on a number of fronts,” Rue told CIO Australia.

The firm employs approximately 960 staff, a figure that fluctuates depending on the number of contractors employed for various projects. Specifically, the IT team is centralised, assisting employees based in major cities in Australia, as well as those at design studios in China, Singapore, and Thailand.

“With the boards blessing, it is now time for me to move on to new challenges and to hand over the reins to someone else for the next phase at HASSELL.”

Of his next challenge, Rue said he will take the time to reflect while business remains as usual.

“Having been asked to present at local and international speaking engagements, both on our overall processes and individual elements contributing to successful outcomes, has been a benefit not only for myself and the team but also for HASSELL,” he said.

The company runs over 300 software applications in order to manage the various design and architecture projects which include line-of-business applications, productivity applications, and design tools, such as the Adobe creative suite. It also boasts 850 personal computers including desktops, laptops, and netbooks.

Prior to taking on the CIO role with HASSELL, Rue consulted for various local and international blue chip organisations including Pfizer, BHP, AIG, NYK Line, JTC (Singapore), Royal Bank of Scotland and the Department of Defence.

The recruitment process has begun to find Rue’s successor, however, the company is yet to make an appointment.

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