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About

Simon Hawkins

Simon Hawkins

Fighting software entropy

Me #

I am an engineer and technical leader. From an early age I was fascinated by the potential of computers, this has led to a life-long passion for technology and building elegant solutions to real-world problems.

  • In the late 90s, I worked on a legacy mainframe system (IBM3090), mini (VAX), client server and the beginnings of web development.
  • In the 2000s, I consulted for many companies delivering client/server and web applications solutions. Just a flavour of the clients covered include recruitment agencies, travel companies, ecommerce businesses and law costs draftsmen
  • In the 2010s, grew a company into the leading supplier of two SaaS products within the business tourism space, this company was acquired by the leading American company in business tourism.
    Then introduced to two founders with a start-up concept within the automotive movement space. I architected and managed their SaaS and mobile products from concept to production. This company is now No 2 in the vehicle movement space with their software winning multiple awards over several years.
  • Most recently, I am building and scaling a SaaS/data business whilst also providing consultancy covering software development and building development teams. I’ve found that building teams is just as exciting and challenging as building technology, so here I write about both (and a few other topics as well)

What I Do #

  • I align business and technology strategy
    Lots of businesses fail to realise the outcomes they need on time and on budget because the technology strategy doesn’t match their needs. I seek to understand the real needs of a business and its customers and tailor strategies to get the best outcomes possible. With an in depth knowledge of business as well as software I can advise on technology from a business standpoint.
  • I start with a Jobs-to-be-Done mindset
    End-users rarely want to use software for the fun of it: there is a job they are trying to complete. I work hard to build an understanding of the jobs that users’ are performing to maximise the value being delivered. For example, one feature I led the design of saved a customer services team approximately 46 business hours per-week by reducing friction in a key workflow.
  • I build high-performing engineering teams
    My key focus is on ensuring that there is a clear mission and key competencies in place to achieve the outcomes needed by organisations. Experienced in all aspects of the software development, this means I ensure that all of the skills needed, from design to delivery and acceptance, are in place and aligned.
  • I break down barriers between stakeholders
    Most issues that prevent effective working are communication-based. I focus on getting everyone around the ’table’ and drawing out the assumptions and important facts that lie at the heart of those issues, enabling organisations to move forward with clarity. My ability to explain technical details to a non-technical audience allows business decisions to be taken from a position of understanding.
  • I focus on sustainable, valuable development
    I’m a passionate believer in the values, principles, and practices of Continuous Delivery having seen the success of them first-hand: they enable sustainable delivery of value to businesses and their customers. The right tool for the job focusing on the client needs not tech for tech’s sake.

Where I can help #

With over two decades of experience across diverse industries, I specialise in:

  • Strategic problem-solving: Identifying core business pain points and translating them into actionable, cost-effective technology strategies.

  • End-to-end product development: From concept to launch, I lead teams to deliver high-performing systems, ensuring quality, scalability, and business alignment.

  • Building and leading high-performing teams: Whether scaling internal development teams or transitioning from external vendors, I foster collaboration and accelerate delivery timelines using agile practices.

  • Bridging technical and non-technical worlds: Known for demystifying complex concepts, I enable stakeholders to make informed decisions that align with their strategic goals.

Throughout my career, I’ve driven projects that have achieved outstanding results, including award-winning software platforms, industry-leading digital innovations, and systems that scale seamlessly with business growth. My hands-on approach ensures I remain grounded in the technical details while keeping the bigger picture in sight.

If you’re looking for a technology leader who thrives in dynamic environments, delivers measurable results, and ensures technology serves your business goals, let’s have a conversation. Contact me via my services company - Obvious Technology Ltd or via LinkedIn