A SCOTS software engineering company has announced the appointment of its new CTO following a record year of growth.
Edinburgh-based xDesign has appointed Jeff Watkins as its first chief product and technology officer.
Jeff will lead and help develop the firm’s technology and engineering capabilities and will be based in the Leeds office.
Calling himself a “lifetime technologist”, Jeff started coding when he was six years old, and has worked in financial services, healthcare, retail and most recently at AND Digital.
Jeff’s appointment follows a successful year of growth for xDesign, who have seen their team quadruple to over 200 members since opening a new office in Leeds last July.
Euan Andrews, CEO of xDesign, said: “Jeff’s appointment marks the next phase of xDesign’s evolution as we continue to scale at pace.
“Our people remain a key focus and we invest in the team’s learning, development and wellbeing as a priority.
“Jeff brings a wealth of experience that will provide valuable support to our product and engineering teams as we work to achieve ambitious growth plans.
“It’s clear that technology is in Jeff’s DNA and he will be applying his vast knowledge across our teams, but he also has the enviable capability to inspire people and to help achieve commercial growth.”
Jeff Watkins added: “Joining xDesign was a no brainer – its people-focused approach was a huge draw, as well as its commitment to uniting product, design and technology.
“I am passionate about technology being a great leveller that benefits the human experience.
“We have seen how the pandemic has driven more people to use technology and apps, and it is the responsibility of organisations like xDesign to create a compelling and engaging experience for users.
“The potential for xDesign to lead in this area is huge and being part of that journey is something I can’t wait to get my teeth into.”
