BOSSES / DIRECTORS
Vic Kimmel
CEO
He’s the head honcho and brains behind the operation. Having worked in IT project roll-outs for one of America’s most successful managed service providers, and then later as a member of Capital One’s own infrastructure team, he knows his stuff. Bright started as twinkle in Vic’s eye when he had a vision to bring the same enterprise class IT he had been used to delivering, to the offices of London’s fast growing companies.
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 (that’s Sesame Street for those that don’t already know)
Favourite word? auf wiedersehen Auf Wiedersehen (two words but he’s the boss so who are we to argue??)
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. Having worked in a number of fields before discovering he had a knack for information technology, he has a wide range of experiences and skills. Since he was a late bloomer in our world, he relates well to people who aren’t 100% comfortable with technology and enjoys thinking up ways of making it simple and user friendly.
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. (Josh also has a love of all things aerial in case the plane references hadn’t given it away)
Umesh Dua
Managing Director
H
e'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.
When I'm away from my
computer I...
am usually with my kids but I also love to read. Factual books only though, never fiction.
Who is your doppleganger?
Bill Gates. (Who Umesh also 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.
RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT TEAM
Kevin Marshall
Business Development Manager
A man who always prefers to look before he leaps. Kevin brings serious experience and a sense of calm to the sales desk having worked all over the Middle and Far Eastern markets for a major Japanese trading house. Spotting the potential that was emerging he ‘jumped ship’ (he’s a keen boater so we thought this reference was pretty apt) from aluminium trading to IT in 2000.
As the company champion for our spearhead Document Management System he is incredibly single minded (it’s amazing, just ask him). He brings a measured, sensible, strategic approach to our highly excitable and energetic sales team.
When I’m away from my computer I...
like nothing more than to spend time with my wife and daughter and when I get a pass I always go out for a spot of hill walking or a spill on my Laser 4000 dinghy. (we intended this answer to be completed twitter style but Kevin has got a little carried away – we’ll allow it)
What gadget would you like to see invented in your lifetime?
Wireless Power – this one is only a matter of time.
What superhero would you most like to be?
Spiderman - he never had to worry about tube strikes. (and salesman love spinning a little web)
What famous person do people say you look like?
Victor Meldrew (we don’t believe it hehe)
Favourite word? Thankyou (a sneaky one but he was so polite we let it go)
Least favourite word? Loss
If I wasn’t doing what I’m doing I would be...
Owning and running my own boatyard. (We see a pattern emerging here)
James Nunn
Business Development Manager
The Bright Identity!! He has the skills of a dangerous man........ and built to disappear. He works on the
frontline of technology, the cutting edge, working tirelessly to source the newest technologies and the best for our customers. Our infrastructure guru, he knows how to make your business operate most effectively.
Trained from an early age in the blazing heat of the deserts of Bahrain he has been undercover in England for 5 years. Slipping seamlessly into the fabric of life he gained a Master’s degree in Sports Physiology and had a stint in recruitment. He even gained Apple support certifications. All this in preparation to burst onto the IT scene!
IT is Bourne!!
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?
People say I look like Matt Damon, but I just tell them he actually looks like ME.
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 (another sneaky one but we’re not gonna argue – would you???)
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.
Shakeel Khan
Account Manager
Shakeel arrives
at Bright with 16 years at telecoms giant BT in his back pocket. You can’t buy that kind of experience and we’re letting you have it as part of your package – lucky customers, aren’t we generous to you.
As Account Manager he is an integral part of the Bright experience. He basically spends his time chatting with all our customers; resolving issues, providing solutions but most importantly understanding the bones of each individual business. This enables BRIGHT to suggest improvements, upgrades, and better ways of working based on what our customers actually want to achieve. In short, bespoke, unique solutions for each customer.
A man of varied tastes he also has a degree in Art & Art History and is an avid cricketing fan.
When I’m away from my computer I...
am usually doing DIY. (having recently completed an extension he is now an expert in painting, sanding, and filling cracks)
What gadget would you like to see invented in your lifetime?
A time travelling machine
What superhero would you most like to be?
Inspector Gadget – never have to look for a spanner again.
What famous person do people say you look like?
Imran Khan, the perfect combination of good looks and cricketing ability.
Favourite word? Absolutely
Least favourite word? Not Out (we assume it becomes his favourite if he is the batsman)
If I wasn’t doing what I’m doing I would be...
A professional cricketer
SERVICE DELIVERY TEAM
Andy Higginson
Engineering Support Co-ordinator / Service Desk Manager
H
e'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.
Dilip Sherchan, MCSE
Infrastructure Support Engineer
Handy Andy’s Right Hand Man (try saying that ten times fast). An MCSE (Microsoft Certified System Engineer) that has supercharged the tech team since his arrival in early 2011. He's a one-man-issue-resolution-machine, just puts his head down and gets it done.
The man from Nepal, whose family have a long standing connection with the Ghurkhas is always calm when others panic. So as one of the on-call team, if you have an IT Emergency Dilip might well be the man who saves your day. (Just don’t expect him to turn up in a lycra suit).
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." (that’s enough singing now Mutley)
His favourite word is...
"Can Do". (This is 2 words but he has a Ghurkha knife in his drawer so we don’t argue)
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.
Omar Bogle, MCSE
Infrastructure Support Engineer
H
e makes sure customers get what they need from BRIGHT. Omar's been at BRIGHT since late 2010. He's an MCSE (Microsoft Certified System Engineer) and 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.
He does love his boy’s toys. He is equally proud of both his Ipad2 and his scooter.
Here’s a challenge for you – have a conversation with Omar where one of you doesn’t laugh!! We think it’s physically impossible.
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 again but he was so nice about it)
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would...
like to be a Doctor.
Dennis Zhang, CCIE
Cisco Network Specialist
D
ennis is a very rare breed; there are only 600 people in the entire country 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.
Since joining BRIGHT in June 2011 he has revolutionised our own network – just wait till we let him loose on yours!!! His Masters in Advanced Technology Management and Cisco qualifications make him a networking wizard – it really is magic.
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. (We reckon he should be a celebrity in his own right anyway).
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 start-up a company in his native country grow into a market leader. Moving to London he 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...
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.
Stuart Nuttall, MCDST
Infrastructure Support 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 the school network while working nights 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 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)
Laura Bevan
Front Line Engineer
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...
ddoing 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
Celebrity Lookalike?
No one can think of a doppleganger and she's even asked all her friends outside the office. (suggestions gratefully received)
Babita Ubhoo-Hopal
Front Line Engineer
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 got married in 2010 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.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM
Wing To
Project Manager
The man who designs all our Technology Solutions and he’s being doing it a long time at the highest levels. Wing used to be head of IT for a massive International hedge fund and thrives under pressure. 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. To us he’s the Jackie Chan of IT.
He loves new technology and is always looking for newer, better, faster ways to do things. If you’ve got a problem that no-one else can solve and if you can tear him away from his desk maybe you can hire...... (you get the drift)
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 satisfying 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 (guess where he got the virtual slap idea from)
Jeevan Swaminathan
Project Manager
We know it’s a bit of a mouthful; we all just call him Jee (as in Jee Whizz). Bright’s most heavily certified member, our resident Brainiac, joined in late 2011. With an incredible 17 IT accreditations to go alongside his 2 Diplomas and 2 degrees (in both India and the UK) he is certified up to his eyeballs in both Technology and Business.
His skill set is nearly as long as his name. He has worked as an ethical hacker, IT manager, server administrator and can use pretty much all networking applications (including Novel, Unix, Linux, anything else ending in UX you can think of). He has plied his trade all over the globe including Prudential in Japan, Air Mauritius, BAA.
When I'm away from my computer I...
like to cook and spend time with my family and friends.
Who have you been told you look like?
Myself.
What gadget would you like t o see invented in your life time?
Any that help mankind understand and preserve nature.
Who do you think is the best superhero in the world ever?
Nelson Mandela
Favourite Word?
Possible
If I wasn't doing what I'm doing I would be...
a Scientist
BEHIND THE SCENES
Sue Zarubova
Resource Manager
Sue joins Bright with a background filled with valuable skills that we hope to put to good use. Hailing from Slovakia she has been in the UK for since 2002, she says she was looking for a new challenge. With her former roles including recruitment and childcare she’s highly organised and, we think, the perfect person to get an office full of boys into some sort of order.
With her responsibilities including organising birthday cake, restocking the office, HR, and recruitment, it’s a tough job but someone’s got to do it.
When I’m away from my computer I...
Like spending time with my friends
What gadget would you like to see invented in your lifetime?
A Cloning Machine (so she could create an extra Sue – there just aren’t enough hours in the day)
What superhero would you most like to be?
Superman; she’d love to be able to travel anywhere in just 10 seconds (she doesn’t mean any exotic destination, just to get around all those January sales)
What famous person do people say you look like?
There have been mentions of both Cheryl Cole and Eva Longoria in the office, but Sue claims she can’t see either. (We think she’s just being modest)
Favourite Word:
Cool
Least favourite word?
No (this seems be a recurring Bright Technology theme)
If I wasn’t doing what I’m doing I would be...
Travelling around the world (a bit slower than superman however)
Chris Davis
Business Analyst
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.
Chris uses his broad skill range to cover a wide range of roles here at Bright. He does a little marketing, analysis on new products and business areas, process management, and generally drives efficiency in all business systems. His To-Do list is always pretty long but he’s always got room for more.
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. (how much fun would a commute be on that thing)
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.
