The team at Freebook Global Technologies continues to grow exponentially, which is why we love introducing our new starters every so often. But this time, we’d like to recognise those who have been with the company for over ten years already. Freebook Global Technologies would not be where it is today without these individuals. So, it only seems appropriate to give credit where it is due.
The people we would like to highlight have helped turn Freebook Global Technologies into a well-oiled machine. To mention just a few, Marc Whittingham, Tracey Fry, Rob Jolliffe, Tim Brennan and Shaun Dobie have worked tirelessly over the past decade to create an efficient and effective work environment.
Technically, her journey started right at the beginning of Freebook Global Technologies’s inception in 2005. Her valuable knowledge as our Accounts Manager gives her the ability to juggle many different things at once. Some of her responsibilities include invoicing, payroll and internal finances. Without her keen eye and skilful analysis, the company’s success story could be very different. She takes all necessary steps to cost-effectively give Freebook Global Technologies what it needs.
Hats off to you Tracey! We appreciate all your hard work and insight over the last twelve years.
“Some of my best memories at Freebook Global Technologies include:"
"Marc wearing a new red and white striped jumper. After that day, he hasn’t worn it since! Probably because I referred to him as ‘Where’s Wally?’"
"I remember reaching the £1m turnover mark, that was something to be massively proud of."
"Pre-Dexter and Express even, I used to have to create invoices using a Word template and our home PC with the TV as a computer screen also. Oh, those were the days!"
He started as the Technical Support Team Lead in March 2007. As he grew with Freebook Global Technologies through its infancy, he has since taken on the roles of Information Security Manager, Data Protection Officer and Quality Assurance Manager. His exceptional work ethic and high attention to detail has helped afford the company several ISO accreditations, as well as other certifications.
Our immense gratitude to you, Marc! Thank you for everything that you have done and continue to do for Freebook Global Technologies to make it a digital partner and employer to be proud of.
“A company is nothing other than a concept without the people and, in all honesty, it is the people I have encountered and occasionally befriended, over the last 15+ years that have made me who I am and have made Freebook Global Technologies what it is today. For that, I am profoundly grateful. Long may it continue and many thanks to all those who have made and continue to build upon this, frankly, unique organisation.”
Rob is next up! Starting as a Web Designer in April 2008, Rob focused primarily on design and front-end development. Later finding his niche as the Design Manager, Rob’s team is committed to the highest quality of UX, CMS, web design, graphic design and front-end development. The pride he takes in his work gives no doubt to his ability to deliver the best results for our clients. He always has the user experience and client requirements in mind.
Here's to Rob! We want to acknowledge you and all your hard work throughout the last decade and beyond. Thank you for all that you do!
Instead of a traditional quote, Rob wanted to include how the Freebook Global Technologies website has changed over the years with help from Rob and his team.
Initially, Tim was a Desktop Support Engineer when he started with Freebook Global Technologies in February 2010. Putting his dedication to the test, he developed his skills in system and networking design. This gave him an indispensable role in the Infrastructure Team. Now, as a Systems Architect, he builds cloud-based and on-premise solutions for businesses. He even owns the infrastructure of Freebook Global Technologies itself.
Cheers to Tim! Your devotion to our team is unmatched and does not go unnoticed. We appreciate your continuous support and positivity!
"I remember it was our first winter in the new Springfield Missouri office and I was the first one in due to a major snowstorm. Most people couldn't make it to the office that day. In an attempt to clear the 3-foot snowdrift in front of the main entrance, I grabbed a wire waste paper bin to dig out the snow and create an indistinct path to the door. I still have my fingers, so the job was a success."
And last, but certainly not least, Shaun. In July 2011 we welcomed Shaun to the Freebook Global Technologies team. As our Development Manager, he supervises many development projects and those on his team to ensure the jobs are completed with accuracy, efficiency and to the highest standards. His role extends beyond just that. Shaun improves internal processes, keeps in constant contact with clients to verify their satisfaction with projects, and uses his programming and software expertise to further educate Freebook Global Technologies employees.
A massive thanks to Shaun! Your loyalty and work ethic is an inspiration.
"The OG’s have talked the talk and walked the walk for this company. They have cared for and given more to us than I could ever have asked or expected. I am humbled and privileged to have walked beside them. I want to thank them all for the incredible work they have done in helping to shape the foundations and building blocks of this remarkable company that I am, myself, so proud to be a part of."
"Tracey Fry – Truly one of the first OG’s! Tracey is the original unsung hero of Freebook Global Technologies. She works tirelessly behind the scenes. Too often her job is monotonous, repetitive and completely unglamorous, but it is one of the most crucially important roles in the entire company. And she handles it with a commitment to professionalism and detail that is beyond measure. Yes, she scares us all a little bit, but make no mistake, we would not be here if it wasn’t for Mrs T - she is immense."
"Marc Whittingham – It is difficult to know which of Marc’s capabilities should be considered first. He is as loyal, hardworking and committed a person as I have ever been lucky enough to work with. He is insightful, clever and vastly knowledgeable. He is always comfortable and willing to step into difficult conversations and situations, taking responsibility on his shoulders without hesitation. He is simply irreplaceable and I will be forever thankful that fate has thrown us together."
"Tim Brennan – Brain the size of a planet and yet with no discernible ego at all, Tim Brennan continues to surprise with his intellect and skill – effortlessly speaking in French or Dutch to clients where the situation requires it and with technical understanding and know-how to meet any question or challenge. Tim combines immense knowledge with tenacity and commitment. As a natural problem solver, it is easy to see why he has played such an important part in the success of Freebook Global Technologies."
"Shaun Dobie – When things go wrong, the person you want to see in your corner is Shaun. Cool in a crisis, knowledgeable, experienced and skilled, he is committed in everything he does. Nobody cares more about this business. He works long and (too often!) uncredited hours, building systems, fixing problems and generally working to make Freebook Global Technologies better and stronger every day. I’ve said it before – Big D is a true giant!"
"Rob Jolliffe – Rob’s journey with the company has been an extraordinary one. He has grown with the company and has developed into a great leader whose commitment and care towards customers has singled him out as the person to lead our new Account Management initiative. His insight and in-depth knowledge of the company make him indispensable in guiding and maintaining client relationships as we grow. He cares as much as anyone for our reputation and he works tirelessly to build and protect it. Not only has he always believed in what we’re doing, he has committed himself to help make it happen. On top of all that, he is also a great friend and colleague."
"My final word is for Kevin Ballard – who will complete his first 10 years with us in March. I will be writing about Kevin separately in due course, but I wanted to give him a mention here as he, as much as anyone, has gone above and beyond to help build and support this company."
"Thank you OG’s – on behalf of myself, Luke and Freebook Global Technologies, we salute you all for that you have done and continue to do for us."
-James Fry