Kevin Howell of HTG: An Entrepreneur's Insight into Technology and Business
Kevin Howell, the founder of the North East-based technology and managed cyber security services business HTG, recently sat down for an in-depth interview. With his company employing 20 staff and serving customers nationwide, Howell offers a unique perspective on the evolving tech landscape and the strengths of the regional business community.
Early Career and Foundational Advice
Howell's first job was as a trainee software engineer on a Youth Training Scheme, earning £29.50 per week plus a £6.50 bus pass. He reflects that while the pay was modest, it provided a crucial entry point into the industry. When asked about the best business advice he's received, Howell cites the timeless adage: "Find a job you love and you will never work a day in your life." He emphasizes that passion and attitude remain vital in today's competitive environment, making a significant impact on daily operations.
Navigating Change and Challenges in the Tech Sector
The technology sector has undergone rapid transformation, with Howell highlighting the acceleration caused by COVID-19, artificial intelligence, and escalating cyber security threats. These factors have prompted organizations to reassess their operational strategies, though not without hurdles. A key challenge he identifies is the perception of innovation as a cost rather than an enabler. "Many clients are advised to maintain basic operations and cut spending, which I view as a regressive step," Howell states. He advocates for embracing disruption, drawing parallels to industry leaders like Netflix, while cautioning against the fate of former giants such as Nokia, BlackBerry, and Blockbuster.
Career Guidance and Regional Advantages
For those embarking on a career in technology, Howell advises against comparing oneself to others and instead focusing on personal growth. "Commit to being the best person you can be, as progress varies for everyone," he recommends. He also praises the North East as an exceptional place to conduct business, noting its reputation for friendliness, hard work, and trustworthiness. The company name, HTG, humorously stands for "Have To Graft," reflecting the collective effort to support one another and deliver optimal outcomes for customers and partners, thereby fostering enduring relationships.
The Role of Business in Society and Personal Insights
Howell underscores the importance of businesses contributing to society, recalling the economic difficulties in the North East during the 1990s. He points to the region's heritage of pride, passion, and hard work—qualities that persist today and position it to lead in emerging fields like AI with a human-centric approach. "Our compassion and understanding of people's needs, combined with experience, could be transformative," he asserts.
Outside of work, Howell excels at golf and is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of English golfers. In a lighthearted moment, he reveals that some compare him to actor Hugh Grant, particularly after a memorable dance at his 50th birthday. For a hypothetical dinner party, he would invite Kevin Keegan, Chuck D of Public Enemy, and Steve Jobs, admiring them as disruptors and influencers who have uniquely shaped culture, leadership, and innovation.
