Answer appealed to Ravi because of its culture. He felt that employees are valued, and there was lots of scope for progression. It has a small company feel that meant everyone was heard. After three years, he still believes that the culture sets the company apart.

Ravi joined Answer after working with HP on its web content management system. He brought a wealth of experience from the financial services sector, where he worked on a platform to connect ATMs and POS terminals.

Apart from his busy schedule of client work, Ravi was involved with the project groups that developed Answer’s brand and shaped mentoring activities. He found the branding process inclusive, with focus groups of employees to feedback on the designs.

Commenting on the experience, Ravi said: “Our move to employee-ownership really crystallised the culture at Answer, and I feel careers ladders is a logical step. When you’re moving forward with your career, it’s helpful to understand the skills you need in your next role. With our Careers Ladders programme, you know your career path and the experience you need to get to where you want to be.

“Every team member is allocated a career guide to help you realise your goals. They are there to help you get to where you want to go. You build and develop a plan to put a structure around your career. Regular reviews of the objectives you set for yourself are reviewed, and the process is between you and your career guide.”

Ravi has a career guide to support him, and, in turn, he supports two other people. He has found the experience of being a career guide rewarding, and it’s helped him develop his own skills.

Not your average day. Ravi’s day starts with a team catch up and a coffee meeting with colleagues in the same sector. It then moves into client ‘standups’ across various projects. The work is very varied and involves managing multiple projects to enhance the software. His day will include everything from creating impact assessments to proof of concept and solution designs.

Ravi says:

“I enjoy my job. I have a longer-term relationship with the client and have developed some great relationships. Working at Answer is about being part of an organisation where everyone really does care about you, and you get back what you put in.”