Reading: Ultima Business Solutions gears up for next growth phase with new CEO
Fast-growing IT solutions provider Ultima Business Solutions is entering its next ambitious growth phase as it welcomes a new chief executive. Scott Dodds, who left Microsoft earlier this year to take on the role of VMWare’s EMEA vice president of channels and alliances, is set to take the helm at the Reading-based business from October 20.
Incumbent CEO and founder, Max McNeill is moving to the position of chairman to take a more strategic role in the business, focusing on acquisitions, recruitment and overseeing the move to a new HQ.
Reflecting on the company’s rapid growth and its future, McNeill stated: “We have taken the business from zero to £100 million in just 25 years, and this has been achieved by purely organic growth, without outside funding. We aim to hit £150m turnover in two years, breaking through the £200m barrier within five years.
“Ultima has recently made a number of significant investments to create a platform to take us to the next level, and we are positive that Scott will aid, and further strengthen, our future business success.”
As Ultima celebrates its 25th anniversary, the company is set to launch a new website in the coming weeks, and has recently opened a new city office – five times bigger than its previous premises. The company has also acquired a business park in Reading, which will act as its HQ from April 1, 2016.
With favourable market conditions and a growing workforce of over 350 employees, McNeill stated what’s next for Ultima: “With so much going on and the advent of the cloud, we are perfectly positioned for a significant surge in growth. Scott, with his immense skills, experience and knowledge of the market, is the perfect person to guide us to greater heights.”
Dodds commented on what he hopes to bring to the company in his new role: “I am delighted to be joining Ultima as it celebrates its 25th anniversary as a key player in the UK IT industry. The relentless focus on delivering customer value through technology-supported innovation and services has enabled Ultima to grow into a strong and trusted partner for customers and vendors alike.
“I am looking forward to playing a part in supporting this incredible Ultima team to continue to grow with its customers through the application of the most innovative technology and services in the industry today.”
