By Business & Finance 
Pictured: Mike Lillis, Chief Commercial Officer, Storm Technology
Mike Lillis is the Chief Commercial Officer of Storm Technology, a business technology consultancy firm. Lillis has over twenty five years’ experience in the industry.
What was your first job?
My first role was through a graduate program in Information Technology (IT) and it was with J.P. Morgan in the UK. It was a great place to cut my teeth given that it’s a global leader in the financial services space and works with some of the world’s most important corporations.
What pushed you to pursue a career in this field?
I took a year out to do a Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) in IT and Tourism Awareness having chosen IT during the CAO process. It was actually my parents who originally encouraged me to look at this sector because there were plenty of opportunities for work. The year I spent doing the PLC cemented the discussions I’d had with my family and I realised that it was a career I would really enjoy.
What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date?
It’s a toss-up in terms of career achievements! I’m proud of the growth Storm Technology has enjoyed over the past ten years and the role the company has played in the careers of many colleagues. That’s a great thing to be a part of. I’m also proud of being a driver of the Build to Share (BTS) initiative across local and central government, which encourages the sharing of technology solutions among public sector bodies. This type of client success is what Storm Technology is all about. We aim to enhance experience, deliver excellence and maximise impact through technology – and for me, the BTS initiative is a standout example of this.
Career wise, would you do anything differently?
Yes! As a young professional, I was offered advice but, to steal a phrase from one of my favourite movies, White Men Can’t Jump, I didn’t listen. At the time I was too headstrong but now, while I still maintain my own view, I value the advice I receive more. Over the years, I have discovered the value of taking the insights and advice of others on board alongside my own perspective to help shape my viewpoints and make decisions.
In one sentence, how would you define success?
Enjoying what you do, whatever it may be.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The best piece of advice I have received is probably “C.I.A.” It stands for Control, Influence and Accept. In every situation, be it personal or professional, you can take one of three approaches. You can control it or influence it, or – if you can’t do either of those – you can accept it. Once you accept it, you can then adapt your approach accordingly.
How do you motivate yourself and your staff?
Coming from a sporting household, I’m naturally competitive. It’s also made me passionate about being part of a team and helping to lead and shape that team to perform well. This gives me a strong work ethic which I hope also motivates those around me. My focus on teamwork helps to foster an environment where we hold each other accountable for collective success.
How do you handle adversity?
Firstly, I would assess the situation myself. Then I’d ask for help and advice. Based on this, I’d form a view and try to tackle the issue or challenge it head-on.
How do you relax?
I enjoy wellbeing exercises like short meditation sessions. I also like watching sport and true crime documentaries, as well as taking long walks with the dogs.
What are your aspirations for the future of the business?
As technology continues to evolve at speed, I’m enthused about using Microsoft solutions and services to drive client success, and also have this shape Storm Technology’s journey. After all, as an organisation, we aspire to be one of the top Microsoft partners in the market. Understanding how technology can make a client’s day easier continues to motivate me and I’m excited to see what the team can achieve next.
