Leo Pickford
IT Manager @Architectureplb
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WORK HISTORY
IT Manager @Architectureplb
Over more than two decades at ArchitecturePLB, I have navigated the constant challenge of developing and adapting technology to meet the practice’s ambition for innovation and its demand for high standards. The AEC industry has presented shifting economic and organisational landscapes from periods where we operated as a multi-site company with nearly 100 staff, to more recent phases as a smaller, more focused practice. Each stage required modernising processes, rethinking workflows, and aligning IT strategy with new business realities.During this time, I have onboarded new staff, fostered strong working relationships, and consistently delivered a “white glove” level of service to architects and project teams whose creativity depends on reliable, seamless tools.My contribution has been shaped by dedication, diligence and professionalism, underpinned by a belief that IT is not only about systems and infrastructure but about enabling people and supporting the social and creative importance of the work we do.Key responsibilities:• Developing and executing IT strategy, budgets and planning to align with business goals and practice values• Managing server and network infrastructure, hybrid storage platforms and cloud services• Ensuring data security, backup and disaster recovery, meeting Cyber Essentials Plus and IASME standards• Overseeing endpoint management, deployment automation and lifecycle management• Delivering Microsoft 365 governance, security and user adoption across the practice• Leading vendor management, procurement and licensing negotiations (VMware, Adobe, Autodesk, etc.)• Providing reports, guidance and training to Directors and staff, translating complex IT issues into clear business terms
EDUCATION
Solent University
Bachelor's degree
Solent University
HND
SKILLS
ABOUT LEO PICKFORD
I am an IT leader with over 20 years of experience in the creative and architectural sector, combining hands-on management with strategic consultancy for larger firms.In my role as IT Manager, I hold responsibility for all aspects of IT across a leading UK design practice, including budgets, infrastructure, security, continuity and end-user support. I lead projects from conception through to completion, balancing business priorities with day-to-day operational demands.Alongside this, I have worked with both global AEC firms and UK design practices as a consultant and strategic advisor. My focus has included shaping IT strategy, governance models, disaster recovery frameworks, cloud adoption and cybersecurity compliance. This has given me experience in guiding teams at scale, negotiating vendor agreements and aligning IT investment with business goals.Recent highlights include:• Delivering data centre and storage modernisation with top-tier vendors including VMware, Nasuni, Egnyte, Dell and HPE• Designing and implementing business continuity and DR strategy with Veeam, Wasabi and digital air-gap immutability• Standardising endpoint deployment and lifecycle management using RRM tools, Intune and ManageEngine• Driving Microsoft 365 governance, security and compliance with Entra, Intune, Secure Score, update management and OneDrive/SharePoint rollout• Supporting Cyber Essentials and IASME compliance across infrastructure and policy• Managing vendor and licensing negotiations with VMware, Adobe, Autodesk and othersI thrive on enabling creative professionals through reliable, forward-thinking IT and enjoy translating complex technical decisions into clear business outcomes. My approach blends operational ownership with strategic vision, making me equally effective in technical environments, management meetings and when advising global leadership teams.
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