In the first of our series of interviews, we speak to Stuart Morris, Head of TouchstoneCloud, we find out more about his career, life outside work, and how he manages with working through a pandemic.
How long have you been with Touchstone and what is your role?
I’ve been with Touchstone for just over two years now, I was brought on board as Head of Touchstone Cloud with the aim of growing that part of the business, standardising the product offerings and ensuring a top-quality level of service for our customers. I also act in an advisory capacity to other parts of the business, supporting the sales team with cloud technology expertise.
What is your proudest achievement since joining Touchstone?
Really the growth that TouchstoneCloud has achieved since I joined. We have doubled in size in the last 2 years. We have worked to align a lot of our practices to best of breed and developed best practice, achieving Cyber Essentials Plus certification in 2020. In standardising our offering to make an easily understood product, as well as providing an excellent service, we have provided a product that is really attractive to potential customers.
How did you get involved in technology, and what was your journey to where you are today?
I studied at the University of Staffordshire. During my industry placement year, I worked for Michelin and IBM which introduced me to the IT support side of things. Once I finished university, I was employed in a full-time support role and over the last 18 years my career has developed into the Cloud services and hosting world.
What is the team culture like at Touchstone?
It really feels like a family unit which is a great environment to work in. Anyone will help anyone else, no matter what their job title or seniority, we all feel like one team. Considering there are many moving parts within the company it is great that everyone will always pull together to get the job done. I previously worked for a partner of Touchstone and had worked with some of the team prior to joining, so I knew it was a place I wanted to work.
Do you have any tips for working through a pandemic?
Well for me, it hasn’t really changed much, because I was based from home even before the pandemic. But the thing that has kept me going is staying grounded, remembering and being grateful for what I have at a time when so many are struggling or losing loved ones.
What is your favourite non-work thing to do?
It has to be football! I don’t play anymore but I am a West Ham fan and follow them throughout the season. Out of football season I enjoy a round of golf, trying to keep as active as I can. Outside of sport, I will be spending time with my kids.
Where is your favourite place to be?
Anywhere that my kids are happy: as long as they are happy and enjoying themselves, I am happy! Oh, and sunshine helps too.
