Yellow Bus have been celebrating 20 years on Birchwood Park, delivering IT, connectivity and technology to UK businesses.
We caught up with company Director Mike to find out what the journey has been like:
1. What was your first ever job?
I came onboard with Yellowbus approx. 10-12 months after it was founded. At the start we were all technical. From building PC’s and servers, to onsite installs and running cables ourselves (spent many a time on the roof of Chadwick house in the rain). As we have grown, we have moved into roles where we can work on the business. We have built out teams with specialist technical skillsets and have a great management team that oversees the day to day operations of the business.
2. What do you enjoy most about your job?
For me it’s the vision and commercial side of business – From exploring opportunities, to working on our future plans. Along with this comes working with our clients and partners to build great relationships.
3. Where was your first office located?
Our first office was based on the 4th Floor in Chadwick House, one of the smaller ones that could fit approx. 4 desks.
4. Why did you choose Birchwood Park?
Birchwood Park was local to all directors, but it also soon became apparent that the local community would be a great business network to grow with
5. How many people did Yellowbus first employ compared to now?
There were 3 of us at the start (myself and the x2 founders), compared to 2020 we will be around x27-30 team members, and 30+ with contractors.
6. Who was your first big client?
We have worked with some well known companies and brands over the years, but getting involved with some of the key nuclear joint ventures 10-15 years ago was probably on the larger side for our earlier years.
7. What has been your favourite job to date?
Linked with question above – Working on one of the key nuclear joint ventures 10+ years ago with a small team and delivering everything from the cabling and PC’s right up to the infrastructure and managed IT support for 600+ users.
8. What are you most proud of?
Proud of the team to getting us where we are today, and proud that we are making a dent on becoming one of the main IT providers in the nuclear space.
9. Which charities have you supported along the way?
As a team we have always taken on challenges to support charities close to our hearts. From ultra-marathons, to mountain treks, to even a 400 mile tandem bike ride (never again!). The charities we have supported over the years are St Rocco’s, Brainwave, Macmillan, British Heart Foundation, WODAC
10. How do you start your day?
For me, I need an early start to hit the gym or run. I need this to get my day moving and then onto my planner. It makes it easier to get up with a 3 year old jumping on you at 5am.
11. How has lockdown and Covid19 affected the company?
We have obviously felt some impact and changes, however as a key supplier our teams have been busy ensuring our clients have all the remote working tech and security they need to continue doing business. We are seeing a big change in the way people look at tech, and remote working will become the new norm for many.
12. What made you want to stay on Birchwood Park for 20 years?
There are 2 sides to the reason we love Birchwood Park. The community and BP staff are great and there isn’t another location like it. The other reason as we are also a key supplier to a lot of the tenants for connectivity, telecoms and IT so its crucial we have a presence to maintain a great service.
13. What’s your favourite thing about having offices in 401?
We love our office in 401. This is our HQ and is a great environment for the team. It’s an impressive building and looks great for client visits. Not to mention, the coffee is great too!
14. Can you sum up Birchwood Park in five words or less?
Community
15. What’s your favourite event on Park?
From a business perspective we love that Birchwood Park hosts several Nuclear expo’s. From a social side, the team love all the events across the park. Especially when the ‘Big pan’ is involved at the Engine Rooms feeding people.
16. Did you submit a name for the Mole in 2018? What was it? Can you remember his name now?
I won’t lie, no. I even just tried to Google in but no luck. What is it, so I know for our 2040 interview?
17. We’re shocked! (It’s Molecule) What is one thing that people are surprised to know about you?
A lot of people probably don’t know I am having a baby on Friday (1st May).
18. What is one thing you are really looking forward to this year? (DON’T say end of Lockdown!)
Obviously having another baby is top of the list. Also, strangely looking forward to putting a suit jacket on when we can get back into offices.
19. One piece of advice you would give yourself 20 years ago?
That having a niche in business is a game changer.
20. What is the ultimate goal for Yellowbus?
To become the leading IT Provider delivering technology & innovation to Nuclear, Engineering & associated industries to solve real business challenges.
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