Getting To Know You: Adam O’Hare, co-founder, CloudStratex

Adam O’Hare

Adam O’Hare, Business Director and co-founder of CloudStratex, a company transforming how businesses leverage next generation technology tells what was the inspiration behind the business.

What do you currently do at CloudStratex?

My main areas of expertise are business development and sales, but I also enjoy marketing, and love to get involved in this side of the business when I feel I have something to add.  In broad brush terms I define my role as trying to understand what our clients want and how best to achieve it. Our entire business model is designed look at problems through the lens of our clients, so we can deliver meaningful value, rather than creating work for work’s sake.

What was the inspiration behind your business?

The technology industry is ever evolving, and it can be hard for businesses to keep up to date with the latest developments and innovations. Many find themselves on the backfoot and constantly playing catch-up to their more digitally savvy competitors. They often have two choices. Hire technology literate people or outsource the running of their IT systems to third party contractors.

Unfortunately, the balance between running the business and changing the business is hard. There is a mass deficit of suitable talent and too often businesses grow complacent and cannot wean themselves away from external providers. This prevents them from really leveraging next generation technologies and maximising the business value.

CloudStratex is built on the premise of teaching businesses “to fish” and get better. Put simply we help our clients and their employees understand ‘how’ to adopt next generation platforms effectively, and when the time is right, we leave. We are interested in solving problems, not outstaying our welcome and becoming one!

Who do you admire?

My colleagues will tell you that I use a lot of Steve Jobs quotes. The reason for that is because his advice and insights are tried, tested and true. I also like that he had a clear vision and a passion for exceeding expectations. Generally, I look to my parents They both had a relatively tough upbringing in Scotland, but you would never realise it. They worked hard, created a good life for themselves and always strove to be the best they could be.

Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?

I never worry about things I cannot control. Energy is finite and I dislike wasting it unnecessarily. I always try to learn from the decisions I have made and that has helped me get to this position. Decisions are neither bad or good. They simply result in outcomes that bring you that little step closer to realising your goals.

What defines your way of doing business?

I believe success is built on long term mutually beneficial relationships that naturally create synergy. That means acting with integrity and being trustworthy and straight in my dealings with others. Sometimes I can come across as too direct, but I am not ashamed of that. It often means that things get achieved a lot quicker!

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

When knocked down, dust yourself off and get up. Do not assume everyone else has all the answers. Really, really, know your numbers. Make sure you work with a great team, where everyone brings someone to the table.