Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are
an ocean- Ryunosuke Satoro
Vic Kimmel
CEO
He’s the head honcho, the brains behind the operation, the visionary. If you have not already read his story then have a look at Our Story.
When I'm away from my computer...
I like to innovate ways to achieve my work, play and logistics without one - oh and to actually physically poke my mates, family and others who AREN'T on FB.
Who have you been told you look like?
Quentin Tarantino, David Letterman, The guy from Nip/Tuck.
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
Rosie from The Jetsons
Who do you think is the best super hero in the world ever?
Super Grover
Favourite word?auf wiedersehen
Worst word?Can't
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
the captain of the love boat.
Joshua Jost
Executive Director
Long time buddy of Vic and the strategic chap. He puts the B into BRIGHT.
When I'm away from my computer I...
work on expanding my arsenal of Top Gun quotes. "That's right Ice Man, I am dangerous."
Who have you been told you look like?
Richard Gere. It's the grey hair and poker face (so I've been told).
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
Wireless extension cable. I used to say this as a joke but now it appears it might be possible, so the joke is on me. But seriously how useful would that be?
Who do you think is the best super hero in the world ever?
Wonder Woman. She's smart, she's cool….and I want her jet.
Favourite word?Yes
Worst word? No
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
a commercial pilot.
Umesh Dua
Managing Director
He's the leadership guy.
Umesh has had a gargantuan 15 years in Information Technology. And wow has he travelled. Spending his life on the road, Umesh has been to a whopping 94 different countries around the world. He has worked in India, Singapore, America, Bangkok, Switzerland and here in the UK. Along the way he's also managed to pick up an MBA in International Business.
He's been at BRIGHT since April 2010 and has managed to bag the desk with the best view in the new Oxford Street based BRIGHT office.
When I'm away from my computer I...
if not with my kids I love to read. Factual books only though, never fiction.
Who is your doppleganger?
Bill Gates. Who he says looks like a Monkey. Bet he wouldn't say that to Bill's monkey face though.
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
A Teleportation Machine.
Who do you think is the best superhero in the world ever?
I was asked the same question 20 years ago. The answer will always be "my Dad". Ahhhhhhh
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
a surgeon. He's already a trained Pharmacist.
Shahab Syed
Client Service Consultant
...and "Serial Entrepreneur". Shahab loves to chat. He is the founder of 'Britannia Training Academy' and 'Entrepreneurs Unlimited’. He joined BRIGHT in early 2011 and still has a limitless supply of ideas and improvements that he wants to implement. He's a self-confessed doer and loves gadgets.
When I'm away from my computer I...
am happily interacting with people. I'm a genuine people person.
Who have you been told you look like?
James Caan from Dragon's Den.
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
Superman's cape. So I really could fly. Be handier than the tube!
Who do you think is the best superhero in the world ever?
Superman.
Favourite word:Fantastic
Worst word:No
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
a brain surgeon.
Chris Davis
Marketing Executive
He's got History. With an MBA in Global Market Development and Global Business Strategy Chris is fresh from the world of marketing nightclubs. We were delighted when he decided to drop the disco lights, in early 2011, and come to the BRIGHT side of town.
When I'm away from my computer I...
can probably be found in the pub.
Who have you been told you look like?
C3PO
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
The Hover Board. As seen in Back to the Future. Life would be generally better; especially my commute.
What superhero would you most like to be?
Does Dr Who count? If not then The Mask.
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
sat on the white isle of Ibiza living a life of luxury.
Dilip Sherchan, MCSE
Infrastructure Support Engineer
He's an MCSE (Microsoft Certified System Engineer) and having arrived at BRIGHT only this year he has supercharged the tech team – he's a one man issue resolution machine, just puts his head down and gets it done. He's one of the on-call team, so if you have an IT Emergency Dilip might well be the man who saves your day.
When I'm away from my computer I...
play football. I'm an Arsenal fan.
Who have you been told you look like?
The team call me Mutley (from Wacky Races – it's less about looks and all about the laugh). But others say Bruce Lee.
Who do you think is the best superhero in the world ever?
Spiderman. He spins a web any size, catches thieves just like flies.
His favourite word is...
"Can Do". This is 2 words – but he's big so we've not pointed it out.
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
in the Army – but my mum vetoed that one as I'm her only son.
Wing To
IT Program Manager
Wing used to be head of IT for a massive International hedge fund. He once worked consecutively through 3 working days and 2 nights with no sleep – with the same shirt on for all of it. Is he man or machine? You decide.
When I'm away from my computer I...
like to wind down or sleep. (Although he's hyper at work so it's hard to imagine him doing "quiet time".)
Who have you been told you look like?
Kung Fu Panda. He's also been described as the Chinese Michael McIntyre, as he's playful and upbeat.
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
The Virtual Slap/Poke/Tickle. How satisfied would you be to send someone a physical jolt from your phone or computer if they were winding you up? Go on, you know you’d want to!
Who do you think is the best superhero in the world ever?
The Green Lantern
Andy Higginson
Engineering Support Co-ordinator
He's been with BRIGHT from the beginning. In fact before BRIGHT even became BRIGHT he was in the team having previously worked for Kimson Solutions and WCS Consultancy. He is BRIGHT's very own Handy Andy. If you need to re-wire your house lights, put up a shower rail or tinker with a Morris Minor, Andy's your guy. Fortunately he's also a great Tech Head.
When I'm away from my computer I...
am fighting the elastic that's trying to pull me back to my desk.
Who have you been told you look like?
Sean Bean - I used to be in the Royal Green Jackets on whom Sean Bean's TV show Sharpe was based. Gerard Butler might also get a mention – probably due to the facial fuzz.
What bit of technology would you like to see invented in your life time?
Space Travel. I'd quite like a job on the Starship Enterprise, just not in the security section as they are always killed when visiting new planets. I'd opt for a job in the canteen or just dynamically walking around with a clipboard making doors open automatically.
Who do you think is the best superhero in the world ever?
Iron Man. He uses technology to be a superhero. A brains and brawn superhero.
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would...
love to be a Formula 1 racing driver.
Omar Bogle, MCSE
Senior Customer Support Engineer
He makes sure customers get what they need from BRIGHT. Omar's been at BRIGHT for one year. He's an MCSE (Microsoft Certified System Engineer). Omar has an amazing 'helping people' philosophy right through to his core. Alongside doing lots of community and charity work he's also a proper computer whizz.
When I'm away from my computer I...
am listening to music and going to music festivals.
Who have you been told you look like?
Rapper DMX
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
A gadget for the poor to locate water.
Who do you think is the best superhero in the world ever?
Lion-O from the Thundercats.
Favourite Word:
"Thank You" Yup that's 2 words!
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would...
I'd like to be a Doctor.
Dennis Zhang, CCIE
Cisco Network Specialist
Dennis is a very rare breed, there are only 600 people in the entire world who know what he knows, so we’re really lucky to have him. He has a mega-mind and just loves IT solutions. Almost too much: previously we have tried to force him home at nearly midnight though he preferred to stay at work to sort out problems that interest his cerebral globes. He joined BRIGHT from Huawei Technology in June 2011. He's also got a Masters Degree in Advanced Technology Management.
When I'm away from my computer I...
am in the kitchen doing a bit of experimental cooking. I also love hip hop music.
Who have you been told you look like?
I have never been told I look like a celebrity. (There you go, he is his own).
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
A Time Machine.
Who's do you think is the best superhero in the world ever?
Bruce Lee.
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
I would be an engineer.
Tyrone Daye, MCSE
Infrastructure Support Engineer
Never fear Tyrone is here. South African Tyrone has done this before; he helped a start-up company in his native country grow into a market leader. Then worked for a Legal IT firm until he saw the potential in BRIGHT. There’s no end to the guys talents, back home he worked the comedy circuit, so make sure you ask him for a joke. He describes himself as The Man Who Can, a Troubleshooter, the Last Line of Defence. Careful Tyrone you will be fighting them on the beaches next and sand isn’t good for computers!
When I'm away from my computer I...
I am practicing my photography or socialising with friends
Who have you been told you look like?
Jonah Hill. Pre my UK based lager love I was told I looked like American Pie actor Jason Biggs.
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
A Stupidity Eradicator. When people say stupid things you can fire it at them. This would have different levels that range from eradicating the stupid thing said to a higher level of eradicating the person completely.
Who do you think is the best superhero in the world ever?
Captain Underpants. He even has an outfit in mind for his alter ego: Red underpants and a dish towel around his neck., with a utility belt for his stupidity eradicator.
James Nunn
Frontline Technology Specialist
Confused by his title? You're not the only one, James covers a number of roles for BRIGHT and it fits quite well with his background. Born and raised in the Middle East (Kuwait and Bahrain - he has played Rugby 7s for Bahrain) he came to the UK for University gaining a Masters in Sports Physiology. After a stint in recruitment his passion for IT drove him to Bright where his natural organisation and attention to detail enables him to support/organise the sales team and control procurement. On the side James has been quietly accumulating a number of IT qualifications, with his Apple Support Professional certification soon to follow
When I'm away from my computer I...
am either reading Engadget or in the gym searching for 'the pump' (he would like you to note the Arnie reference)
What famous person do people say you look like?
An athletic cross-breed of Michael McIntyre and Nick Frost/Matt Damon (he added in the athletic bit all by himself)
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
The T-Shirt press – like a trouser press but for T-shirts (he really hates ironing)
What superhero would you most like to be?
Tony Stark (the Robert Downey Junior version)
Favourite word:
Noworries (bit sneaky but we'll allow it)
Least favourite word:
Failed
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
Unemployed, isn't that usually what happens? No, no I'd be involved in IT somehow, I just can't get enough of it.
Stuart Nuttall, MCDST
Front line Engineer
Our first Microsoft Certified Desktop Specialist Technician, Stuart has worked hard to get all the way to us. The straight-talking, hard-working Lancashireman spent a lot of time teaching IT to young kids so customers should be easy-peasy (we hope). He also beefed up their network while working night to gain more qualifications – he's a man that just won't quit until the job is done. Recommended by another member of the Bright family we decided his no-nonsense, uncompromising approach to IT was the perfect fit and the final piece of our first line jigsaw.
When I'm away from my computer I...
go to the gym
What famous person do people say you look like?
Steven Gerrard
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
Skypad Apartments like from the Jetsons
Who is your favourite superhero?
At the moment Captain America but also Thor and The Hulk
Favourite word:
Giggity
Least favourite word:
Innit (I think we can all agree on that)
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
helping someone in some way (he's such a nice boy)
Leigh Downes, MCSE, MCTS
The Man from Down Under (and we don't mean your desk)! Our resident Aussie was a "jack of all trades" before entering IT; he has worked in Bars, internet cafes and even painting houses to name but a few. Hailing from Melbourne his MCSE and MCTS are bolstered by over 3 years' experience working for an IT consultancy. He loves to travel and brings those experiences with him along with his passion for Disaster Recovery solutions. He is just the kind of happy chappy our client love talking to and when combined with his "get on with it, get it done" attitude it's a match made in heaven.
When I'm away from my computer I...
read, cook and relax.
What famous person do people say you look like?
Mark 'Chopper' Read (an Australian criminal turned author for those of you who don't know)
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
The world has enough gadgets. (are IT technicians even allowed to say that, sounds like sacrilege)
Who is your favourite superhero?
Scott Pilgrim. He took on the world :-)
Favourite word:
Peace
Least favourite word:
Hate
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
brewing beer.(and drinking it we hope?)
Babita Ubhoo-Hopal
Babita describes herself as the 'Mopper Upper'. With a Masters in Data Communication and Network Engineering still fresh in her big brain, Babita joined BRIGHT in early 2011. She's originally from the Philippines and now that BRIGHT have moved offices from South Kensington to Oxford Street she needs blinkers to be fitted to stop her from shopping.
When I'm away from my computer I...
am on the phone to my husband' She's been married nearly a year and is still in the honeymoon period.
Who have you been told you look like?
Penelope Cruz. Well that’s what team mate Tyrone calls her at work.
What gadget would you like to see invented in your life time?
Anti-Shopping blinkers.
Who do you think is the best superhero in the world ever?
Catwoman.
Favourite word:
"Oh My God" That's 3 words by the way Pen.
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
either a pharmacist or engineer - my mum wanted me to be the first and my dad the second.
Lisa John
Accounts Executive
The least geeky member of our team, Lisa is a specialist in her own field having done bookkeeping and accounts for 25 years – wow. She's worked with loads of different companies from fashion to consultancy, from PR to Mattel toys (we asked if she got a discount but she said she was too old for Barbie at the time, she was only 20) – she say's that BRIGHT is the most fun yet however (ahem, she really did – promise).
When I'm away from my computer I...
am usually running, its my favourite way to relax (she's doing a half marathon later in the year too)
Lookalike:
She's been told Julie walters but has never quite seen it
Gadget:
Not really a gadget kinda girl (you'd notice if you saw her phone) so cant really answer it.
Superhero:
Lauren Bacall – she's still working at 86 that's pretty super in my eyes
Laura Bevan
Laura is likely to be the first voice you hear when you call us. She has been in IT since finishing college in 2003 and has always enjoyed tinkering with computers. With specialist knowledge in the hosted email field she comes in to beef up our first line support and is the perfect person for it as all she really wants to do is help people. In her own words "if the customer is happy then I'm happy".
When I'm away from my computer I...
like to race cars
What gadget would you like to see invented?
a money tree
What superhero would You like to be?
Wonder woman
If I wasn't doing this I would be...
doing graphic design (She did an apprenticeship at Brands Hatch designing car paint jobs, how cool is that?)
Favourite Word:
Cool
Worst Word:
Couldn't possibly be repeated in polite company
Lookalike:
Noone can think of a doppleganger and she's even asked all her friends outside the office.
