Empathy in IT: Chris Ritchie on Leading with Technology
Chris Ritchie is the IT Manager at ARM Group, a mid-sized engineering firm based in Central Pennsylvania with a strong presence throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. With over two decades of experience in the field, Chris transitioned into IT from a background in church youth ministry, bringing a unique perspective to his role. He is known for his hands-on approach to IT leadership, ensuring that he remains connected to the day-to-day operations while also driving the strategic direction of the company's technology initiatives. Chris's commitment to continuous learning and his passion for helping others make him a respected leader in the industry. At ARM Group, he plays a critical role in integrating IT systems across multiple offices and supporting the company's growth goals.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
- Discover how Chris Ritchie transitioned from church ministry to IT, leveraging his passion for technology and helping others
- Learn the significance of gratitude in leadership and how it influences Chris’s approach to managing IT challenges
- Understand the strategic benefits of balancing in-house IT management with outsourcing to Managed Service Providers (MSPs)
- Explore Chris's philosophy on staying hands-on in IT leadership to ensure effective problem-solving and team connection
- Gain insights into the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the importance of security awareness training within organizations
- Hear about the importance of maintaining flexibility and continuous learning in IT to adapt to rapidly changing technologies
In this episode…
In this episode of The Cyber Business Podcast, host Matthew Connor sits down with Chris Ritchie, the IT Manager of ARM Group, a leading engineering firm in the Mid-Atlantic region. Chris shares his unique journey from working in church ministry to becoming a key figure in the IT industry, where he now manages the technological infrastructure of a company with nearly 300 employees. He discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning to a new career, highlighting how his passion for problem-solving and helping others has fueled his success in IT.
Chris delves into the evolving role of IT in business, particularly the balance between in-house management and outsourcing to Managed Service Providers (MSPs). He explains how this approach has enabled ARM Group to maintain a robust and flexible IT environment while managing costs effectively. Chris also emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital landscape, sharing insights on how ARM Group has implemented comprehensive security awareness training to safeguard against threats.
The conversation also explores Chris’s leadership philosophy, focusing on the significance of gratitude, staying hands-on, and fostering a culture of continuous learning within IT teams. Chris provides listeners with practical advice on how to navigate the complexities of IT management, from maintaining strong relationships with MSPs to adapting to rapid technological changes, all while ensuring that the company remains resilient and future-ready.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Matthew Connor on LinkedInCyberLynx
Chris Ritchie on LinkedIn
ARM Group Website
ARM Camco Website
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