Gail Jones, the Managing Director of UKFast, underscores the pivotal role of technology across all business sectors. Her leadership journey in UKFast demonstrates her commitment to fostering people-oriented business practices.
Starting from a simple back-bedroom setup with her husband, UKFast has evolved into a £300 million enterprise. Jones’ story is an exemplar of blending tech with a people-centric approach, emphasising that every contemporary business integrates technology at its core.
The Origin and Growth of UKFast
Gail Jones began UKFast with her husband Lawrence Jones in a humble back-bedroom, driven by a vision to harness technology in a people-centric business model. Over 18 years, this venture flourished into a £300 million company, highlighting the potential of aligning technological advancements with human-centric approaches.
Jones does not define UKFast strictly as a tech firm but as a business prioritising human connection and success. This ideology is central to UKFast’s growth, serving diverse clients and communities by understanding their needs and delivering technology-driven solutions.
Leadership Dynamics at UKFast
Assuming the role of Managing Director was a natural progression for Jones within UKFast’s structured growth. The company has experienced significant expansion, doubling in size under Jonathan Bowers. UKFast’s distinct client groups require tailored approaches, justifying her leadership position and strategic vision.
Gail Jones brings a profound understanding of both the company and its culture. As UKFast navigates a high growth phase, having leaders like Jones, who appreciate the business’s unique ethos, becomes invaluable. Her deep knowledge ensures a seamless fit between leadership and company culture.
Strategising Growth with Dual Leadership
The need for dual leadership at UKFast emerged from its rapid growth trajectory. Effective management necessitates distributing responsibilities to maintain high service standards.
In UKFast, it is a tenet that a manager should not have more than six direct reports. This principle applies across the board, ensuring comprehensive oversight and support. The dual MD strategy allows UKFast to channel focus on both employee and client satisfaction.
Balancing Work and Family
Jones navigates the complex role of being a mother of four alongside leading a thriving tech company. She considers herself fortunate to have family support to balance professional and personal commitments. However, she acknowledges the broader challenges faced by working mothers.
Despite these challenges, Jones reiterates the family-like environment at UKFast, where mutual support is paramount. Balancing her responsibilities demonstrates her commitment not just to her family but equally to the UKFast team, underscoring her dedication to nurturing work-life integration.
Empowering Female Leaders in Tech
Gail Jones recognises the scarcity of female role models in the tech world and wider business landscape. She highlights the additional challenges women face, particularly mothers balancing their careers with family responsibilities. Yet, she underscores the importance of having role models for inspiration.
The tech industry often lacks part-time roles at senior levels for returning mothers, contributing to fewer female figures in leadership positions. Jones’ presence as a female leader in UKFast serves as a beacon of possibility, advocating for more inclusive opportunities for women in tech.
Culture and Community at UKFast
At UKFast, fostering a strong cultural identity and community support is imperative. Jones believes understanding company culture is crucial when recruiting at any level within the organisation. This understanding ensures alignment with the team and contributes to a harmonious work environment.
Jones takes pride in this culture, which she describes as unique and special. Her leadership emphasises nurturing these values, ensuring that every team member feels supported and integral to UKFast’s mission.
The Future Vision of UKFast
Moving forward, UKFast is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation under Jones’ stewardship. The company aims to strengthen its technological capabilities while maintaining its commitment to people-centric service.
Gail Jones’ approach exemplifies how leadership intertwined with technological adeptness and a focus on people can drive remarkable business success. Her journey with UKFast offers valuable insights into leading a tech-company with empathy and strategic foresight.