Neil Wisbey, CIO at Systal talks tech strategy and career moves
What would you describe as your most memorable achievement?
Looking back, one of my proudest and most memorable achievements was having the confidence to leave a secure role at a major organisation like IBM and take a leap of faith. Fifteen years ago, I joined a young, ambitious company that was determined to deliver customer service differently – and better.
What first made you think of a career in technology?
I’ve never seriously considered any other career path. From the age of 16, I’ve been captivated by technology. I initially set out to become the best technical engineer I could be. Over time, that passion evolved into a desire to lead – taking accountability not just for delivery, but for developing high-performing teams and delivering outstanding service.
That decision, driven by belief in the company’s potential, has led to my role today as Global CIO, supporting over 250 customers worldwide. I’m incredibly proud of that journey and of having had the courage to make such a pivotal career move.
What style of management philosophy do you employ in your current position?
My management philosophy has always been rooted in trust and empowerment. I believe in building a strong, senior leadership team that is aligned with the company’s strategic goals. Clear communication, collaboration and a shared sense of direction are key to delivering long-term success.
What do you think is the current hot talking point within the data centre space?
From my perspective, the biggest talking point right now is sustainability – something I’ve seen move to a top priority in recent years. There’s a real shift happening in how we think about the environmental impact of data centres, not just in terms of energy consumption, but also how we design, build and operate them. We’re being challenged to find smarter, greener solutions without compromising service and that’s driving a lot of innovation. It’s not just about technology; it’s about doing what’s right for the future.
How do you deal with stress and unwind outside the office?
Spending time with my two wonderful – and admittedly expensive – granddaughters doesn’t leave much room for stress. They help me switch off from work and bring me a lot of joy. I also enjoy long walks with our flat-coated retriever, Rosie and occasionally attempt a round of golf – though I’ll admit, I’m more enthusiastic than skilled.
What do you currently identify as the major areas of investment in your industry?
Right now, I see three major areas of investment: Software-Defined Networking, AI and Automation in Network Operations and the continued rise of Cloud and Multi-Cloud Networking. Organisations are increasingly focused on reducing downtime and avoiding dependency on proprietary hardware. The goal is clear – a self-healing, intelligent network that drives efficiency and agility.
What are the region-specific challenges you encounter in your role?
As Systal expands globally – including the recent opening of our Tampa office – navigating regional complexities becomes increasingly important. Compliance with local laws and regulations often requires us to tailor our services accordingly. Talent shortages can also pose challenges in terms of deployment and on-the-ground operations. Most significantly, current geopolitical and economic instability continues to affect costs, disrupt services and delay implementations. Staying agile and adaptable is more crucial than ever.
What changes to your job role have you seen in the last year, and how do you see these developing in the coming months?
This is something I’m especially passionate about. The industry has moved beyond performance-led delivery. Today, customers want true partner organisations that enhance the end-to-end experience, not just provide a service. At Systal, we’re focused on creating value throughout the entire customer journey – from the first conversation through to implementation and billing. That experience defines how our customers perceive our service and we’re committed to exceeding expectations at every stage.
