Richard Allen

Head of IT | Head of Infrastructure | IT Programme Manager Business Technology, IT Leadership, Programme Delivery & Transformation Expertise

Talent

AylesburyMember since 14 May 2026

network managementinfrastructure managementchange managementit project manager

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About

Hands-on, motivated and solutions-focused, with 20+ years’ experience leading large-scale technology transformation projects in Construction, Education, Media, Telecommunications, Private and Public sectors.
Effective communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, ensuring consistent delivery of IT projects on time, within budget, and aligned with agreed business strategy.
Accomplished in overseeing the design, implementation and maintenance of reliable, resilient, secure and scalable IT infrastructure, managing IT vendor relationships, contracts, service level agreements and KPIs.
Recognised for building trusted relationships, leading cross-functional technical teams to support 400+ diverse customer environments, with a focus on compliance (ISO 27001), security, and business continuity.
Proficient in managing end-user computing, including Microsoft Suite, security, hardware lifecycles, and business applications (ERP, CRM). Proven expertise in controlling and forecasting Capex & Opex budgets.
Champions innovation, staying current with technological trends and advising the senior leadership team on digital strategy, risk management approach, and strategic technology investments and opportunities.

Experience

 Digital Transformation Programme (Sika). Championed transformation of the digital workplace, including replacement network, connectivity, servers, firewalls, WiFi, office spaces and business applications.

 Drove consolidation of Tools and Products (Service Express). Reviewed multiple toolsets, working with suppliers, ran POC's on new products, migrating to new products and saving over £800k per annum.

 Expanded the technical team from 9 staff to 17, creating team lead roles, subsequently replicated across the business. reducing long-standing service issues and improving overall team morale.

 Led the service operations elements of consolidation of legacy systems into a new SAP ERP, reducing IT licensing and support costs by 25% and enhancing IT service and application support capabilities.

 Insource/Outsource (Kerridge). Migrated a software company's entire in-house data centre to a hosted solution, enabling a £1m property to be sold, with operating costs reduced by £200k p/a.