Twenty-five years ago, Richard Walker walked into an interview at Marshall Mill and left with more than just a job. He found a mission, a team, and a place that would become a defining part of his life—and of Answer Digital’s story.

From seasoned VB6 developer to one of the most respected and recognisable figures in our business, Richard has been there through every chapter of our evolution—from UPCO to Answer Consulting, and finally, Answer Digital. Now, we’re celebrating not just an incredible work anniversary, but the impact of a person who has helped shape our culture, capabilities, and community.

A quarter century of change

When Rich joined in May 2000, USB flash drives had just been invented, agile was still a buzzword, and Leeds United were in the Champions League. Much has changed since, but Richard’s trademark calmness under pressure, his sharp consultancy instinct, and his sense of humour have remained constant.

He jokes about “winging it” in the early days—learning on the job, faking familiarity with project management terminology, and discovering agile before it was cool. But the truth is, Rich brought something rare: an unwavering commitment to doing things right, to building trust with clients, and to mentoring those around him.

From whiteboards to white lines

Ask Rich about his career highlights and the stories come thick and fast—installing electronic whiteboards in children’s cancer wards, creating mobile apps for road-painting crews, and working on counter-terrorism systems. He’s dealt with bar brawls in the South, break-dancing-related whiplash, and the odd white line painter who couldn’t use an iPhone due to… unusually long fingernails. Whatever the project, whatever the challenge, Rich has faced it with grit, adaptability, and that famous Yorkshire wit.

A culture builder and academy champion

Perhaps nothing defines Rich more than his role in nurturing others. He was instrumental in launching the Answer Academy, spotting and supporting new talent from day one. Many Answer success stories, such as Danielle, Ash, and Tessa all passed through his capable hands, guided by his mentorship and belief in their potential.

Adam remembers being handed a Rubik’s Cube during his interview to prove he could solve it. Ash calls him “the headmaster you could trust, but wouldn’t cross.” Harvey compares him to “the Football Manager of QA”—building a squad, protecting his team, and lifting spirits with words of encouragement and a well-timed joke.

The heart of team QA

In recent years, Rich’s focus has been on building and leading our Testing Capability. It started with a bold idea—that testers were worth their weight in gold—and quickly grew into one of the most respected units in the business. From automation pioneers to challenging clients, from tight deadlines to standing ovations, QA under Rich has become a force powered by skill, spirit and a little bit of swagger.

He’s never been afraid to get stuck in. Or to throw in a rap at the awards ceremony. Or to motivate a colleague through a tough patch with words that stick: “Sometimes you got to take things on the chin and just keep going.”

From mentor to mate

For many of us, Rich has been more than a colleague—he’s a mentor, a cheerleader, and a friend. Social events wouldn’t be the same without his legendary love of red wine, impromptu handstands, and infectious energy. He’s the person who checks in, shows up, and pushes others to be better.

“Why stay 25 years?” — The answer Is simple

In Rich’s own words:

“People ask me why I’ve stayed at one company for 25 years. The answer is easy—variety, continual learning, and working with and for great people.”

It’s that mix of challenge and camaraderie that’s kept him going—and kept Answer moving forward. Through every milestone and memory, Rich has been at the heart of it all.

A big thank you from the whole team

From Harrogate to hospital wards, from Visual Basic to Python and Synapse Pipelines, you’ve shown us what it means to evolve with integrity, humour, and heart. You’ve taught us how to lead, how to listen, and how to laugh—often at ourselves.

Congratulations on 25 phenomenal years. Here’s to the next chapter!