Christmas Spotlight: Gav Winter

As we near the end of a landmark year following the gradual return to ‘normality’ post-Covid, we grab 60 reflective seconds with Gav Winter, CEO at RapidSpike, in an exclusive for the p.ublished group of online newspapers…

1. After a difficult time for many businesses during the pandemic, what was your primary objective at the start of the year?

To get back to some form of normality. The way businesses interact has changed – with more online communications and longer lead times for decision-making – so understanding and adapting to this ‘new world’ post-pandemic was vital.

2. Looking back on 2022, what have been the 3 biggest highlights for RapidSpike?

Firstly, we won our biggest ever global client – which was a fantastic achievement for the team. We also completely rewrote our front-end product. This not only enabled us to do more with it, but to also reach more people, as it’s now fully compliant with Web Technology Accessibility Guidelines (WTAG).

And finally, we built a fantastic ROI calculator that helps businesses to understand how to optimise the performance of their websites – and the monetary value behind this.

3. And the most difficult challenge for your business?

To make sure everyone was in the same boat and going in the same direction. We needed to get this right, and we have. While it’s been a big challenge, it’s also been a huge positive for the company.

4. If you had to sum up 2022 in one word, which would you use?

Horizon.

5. What’s RapidSpike’s key goal for next year?

To grow sustainably. We’re not only bringing greener partners into our products but we’re being more eco-friendly ourselves, too.

6. Name another northern firm that hope will have an outstanding year in 2023…

There are lots of companies in Yorkshire that I love. I’m a big fan of The Data Shed – how they treat their people, and their commitment to both their business and doing wider good, is inspiring. I enjoy watching their story.

7. How do you think the regional business climate will fare overall?

Yorkshire will be fine because we’re tough. We’re resilient, and whilst there will be massive challenges, we’ll come together to get through them.

8. It’s perhaps the first opportunity to celebrate a ‘real’ Christmas post-Covid – what will it look like for you?

Surrounded by family, remembering those we’ve lost this year, and making the most of our time together.

9. What’s the worst Christmas gift you’ve ever been given?

There’s a running joke in our family. I’ve always wanted an American football – it’s been on every Christmas wish list I’ve ever made, and no one has ever bought me it. The worst gift is definitely not having received that yet…

10. Describe Christmas at your house, in three words

A winter wonderland.