Ian Barker

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT IAN BARKER

Executive specializing in operationalizing corporate strategy and creating innovative digital products, with a focus on education technology and digital learning solutions. Possesses a unique combination of entrepreneurial, education, and corporate experience in strategic planning and digital transformation- Entrepreneurially minded: 10+ years of startup experience as founder- Proven track-record developing and delivering concepts, strategic initiatives and new business models tied to innovation- Ability to identify and articulate new models and avenues for digital growth, disruption, or reinvention. Comfortable in agile environment- Versatile: Strong mix of business, design thinking, customer experience and digital skills and experience. Not anchored to a single skillset; focused on gaining a deep understanding of how organizations can realize untapped value, reorient for business continuity under challenging circumstances - MBAHighlights- Conceived, planned, and launched Symtext, a startup targeted at education and publishing markets. Raised capital, managed P&L, hired all staff and led all aspects of successful launch into Canada and the U.S. Pivoted the business from the “iTunes of education” to a standards based rights-management and workflow solution for digital content- Subject matter expert in digital content distribution, including rights, workflow solutions, technology, business models, and processes leading to successful innovation- Developed the Town of Oakville\'s first digital strategy, unanimously passed by Town Council, focused on citizen-centred services, smart city technologies, data and analytics, partnerships, and culture.