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  • Out of the Box Only: ERP Lessons from Programme Director Mark Edwards

    Out of the Box Only: ERP Lessons from Programme Director Mark Edwards
    Dec 18 2025
    Why do so many ERP and Dynamics 365 programmes go wrong, even when the technology is sound? In this episode of The Catch Up Podcast, host Phillip Blackmore sits down with experienced D365 Programme Director Mark Edwards to unpack what really makes or breaks complex transformation. Mark traces his journey from manufacturing engineering and production management into ERP, consulting and programme leadership, showing how hands‑on operations experience shaped his approach to delivery and change.Drawing on decades of work across manufacturing, supply chain, chemicals, retail, rental, charities and more, Mark explains why vague contracts, missold projects and over‑reliance on partners leave clients exposed. He argues that too many organisations only bring in a programme manager after supplier selection, when much of the risk is already locked in. His perspective lands against a backdrop where industry research suggests that a majority of ERP programmes still fail to meet their original objectives, largely due to organisational rather than technical issues.From defining a clear vision and target operating model to insisting on “out of the box” first and investing seriously in change management, this conversation offers a practical playbook for leaders planning their next transformation.(00:00) - Welcome to The Catch Up Podcast (02:17) - Early Career in Manufacturing Engineering at GEC (05:55) - First ERP Project and Discovering MFG Pro (07:20) - Seeing ERP From User, Vendor and Consultant Perspectives (11:18) - Defining Vision and Objectives Before Choosing a System (19:08) - Why Clients Must Own the Programme, Not the Partner (24:48) - Treating ERP as Business Change, Not an IT Project (28:02) - Out of the Box Only and the Risks of Customisation (31:16) - Change Management as a Shared Leadership Responsibility (35:01) - Data Quality, Cutover and Continuous Improvement (37:12) - Tough Projects, Bad News Early and Programme Integrity (44:28) - Key Advice for Leaders Starting a D365 or ERP JourneyMark Edwards: Mark Edwards is a seasoned D365 Programme Director with a career that spans manufacturing engineering, production management, ERP consulting and large‑scale programme leadership. Starting in manufacturing engineering with GEC, he moved through roles in production management and supply chain before leading his first ERP workstream on a mid‑market system. He went on to join ERP vendor QAD as a manufacturing consultant, later moving into pre‑sales, marketing and running a consulting practice back to profitability through value‑based selling. Since then, Mark has delivered and overseen ERP and Dynamics programmes from multiple perspectives: as a vendor, as a management consultant, and as a client‑side programme leader. His experience covers manufacturing, supply chain, retail, rental, third‑sector charities and chemicals, with a consistent focus on clear vision, honest communication, realistic contracts and rigorous change management.Episode Insights:Successful ERP and D365 programmes start with a clear, business‑led vision and target operating model, not with software features or vendor demos.Vague contracts and scopes of work create downstream conflict; precise deliverables and roles protect both client and partner.Clients must own the programme: partners bring solution expertise, but only the client can supply true process ownership and decision‑making.“Out of the box” should be the default; unnecessary customisation quickly multiplies risk, cost and long‑term complexity.Change management is a shared leadership responsibility, not a single person’s job, and must start well before go‑live.Action Points:Define a business‑led vision before talking to vendors: Bring your senior team together to answer why you are changing systems and what success looks like in business terms, not technology terms. Capture the key objectives, from risk reduction to productivity and customer service, and use them as the non‑negotiable brief for any vendor conversations.Tighten contracts and scopes of work: Review existing or draft contracts to check how clearly outcomes, responsibilities and deliverables are defined. Challenge vague language around scope, roles and assumptions, and insist on documentation that spells out who does what, by when, and to what standard.Build a client‑side programme spine: Identify and appoint internal process owners and workstream leads across planning, procurement, operations, finance and other core areas. Make them accountable for defining processes, signing off designs and owning change, rather than leaving all decisions to the implementation partner.Apply the “out of the box” test to customisation: For every requested change to standard D365 or ERP behaviour, ask whether the same business outcome could be achieved using the default process. Treat customisation as an exception that requires a clear business case, not as the default response to “we’...
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    51 Min.
  • Lessons from the Front Line of D365 with Chris Lalley

    Lessons from the Front Line of D365 with Chris Lalley
    Nov 27 2025
    What does it actually take to land a complex ERP or Dynamics 365 transformation without becoming another horror story? In this episode of The Catch Up, host Phillip Blackmore sits down with seasoned programme leader Chris Lalley to unpack the realities of delivering large‑scale finance and D365 projects in the real world. They explore how careers evolve from operational finance into programme leadership, why variety and curiosity matter, and how personal quirks like “dishwasher‑level” OCD can be a genuine asset in delivery.Throughout the conversation, Chris returns to a consistent theme: technology‑enabled transformation is fundamentally about people, not platforms. That message is timely. Recent research shows that while ERP capabilities have advanced, 55–75% of projects still fail to hit their original objectives, with average cost overruns near 189%, largely due to organisational, not technical, issues. Chris explains how he approaches new engagements, from establishing vision and sponsorship to assessing team capability and rescuing “programmes in jeopardy”. For leaders about to embark on a D365 or ERP journey, this episode offers grounded, experience‑led guidance on what success really demands.(00:00) - Welcome to The Catch Up Podcast (01:45) - From Big Five Accounting to Early Transformation Projects (03:40) - Finding the Bug for Large-Scale Change Programmes (05:00) - OCD, Attention Span and the Appeal of Programme Work (07:10) - The Dishwasher Story and Structured Thinking (09:13) - First Steps into Microsoft ERP and Dynamics 365 (13:15) - Greenfield versus Mature Organisations in ERP Delivery (17:03) - Starting a New Programme: People, Vision and Strategy (20:06) - Recovering Programmes in Jeopardy and Rebuilding Confidence (26:43) - Learning from Mistakes and Getting Capability Right (33:32) - Fixed Price vs Time and Materials in ERP Contracts (39:50) - Defining Success and the Role of Executive SponsorsChris Lalley: Chris Lalley is an experienced ERP and finance transformation programme leader with a background that spans Big Five accounting, industry finance roles and large‑scale technology‑enabled change. Starting his career in operational finance at firms such as Arthur Andersen and Ernst & Young, he led major internal projects including a global PeopleSoft implementation and the establishment of an offshore shared service centre in Bangalore. That exposure to complex programmes sparked his move into full‑time project and programme leadership, where he has since delivered and recovered high‑stakes ERP and Dynamics 365 initiatives across multiple sectors. Drawing on years of hands‑on delivery, Chris is known for his focus on people, structure and sponsorship as the real levers of success in transformation.Episode Insights:Successful Dynamics 365 and ERP programmes are driven more by people, clarity of vision and sponsorship than by the underlying technology stack.The first weeks on a programme should be spent meeting stakeholders, understanding their motivations and aligning ERP outcomes to business strategy, not rushing into Gantt charts.Change management is usually under‑invested, yet it affects not only employees but also customers when portals and digital channels are redesigned.Capability at the right time is non‑negotiable: under‑resourcing business analysts, architects or change leads early on slows delivery and magnifies risk later.Programme directors must be willing to say when “conditions for success don’t exist” and walk away, protecting both their own reputation and the client’s investment.Action Points:Define success in business terms before you start: Agree a clear vision, outcomes and measures of success with the C‑suite before mobilising your D365 or ERP programme. This includes how the transformation supports overall strategy, what benefits you expect and how you will track them over time. Without this foundation, scope, design and prioritisation quickly drift.Invest properly in change management, not just technology: Treat change, communications and training as a core workstream with its own budget, leadership and methodology. Map who is impacted inside and outside the organisation, from finance teams to customers on portals, and design their journey through the change. Under‑investing here is one of the fastest routes to user resistance and poor adoption.Build the right team and lock in key people: Identify the critical roles across business, partner and contractor resources, then secure the best people you can for a realistic duration. Use contracts and governance to minimise churn in key posts like solution architect, programme manager and lead BAs. Consistent faces and continuity of knowledge are vital for multi‑year ERP journeys.Be honest about risk and willing to make compromises: Accept that large ERP programmes are hard, will involve setbacks and will require compromises on scope or design. Use structured risk ...
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    45 Min.
  • From Contractor to CEO: Steve Snowden’s Journey Building a Dynamics 365 Consultancy

    From Contractor to CEO: Steve Snowden’s Journey Building a Dynamics 365 Consultancy
    Oct 30 2025
    Is the traditional model of ERP implementation truly broken? Host Phillip Blackmore sits down with Steve Snowden, Founder and CEO of Snowden Consulting, for a fascinating look at the evolution of the tech space. Steve recounts his journey from an early role at a pharmaceutical plant during an SAP implementation to becoming a highly sought-after Microsoft Dynamics manufacturing solution architect and, ultimately, a successful business owner. The discussion highlights the seismic shift from on-site camaraderie to remote delivery following COVID-19, and the modern challenge of navigating Microsoft's rapid, AI-driven updates. Steve shares critical insights on project success, emphasising why a "process-first" approach is vital, especially given that more than 70% of recently implemented ERP initiatives fail to meet their original business use case goals.He reveals the two golden rules for a successful global rollout—getting the first template right and meticulously managing data—and how building a relationship-based culture guarantees client loyalty and success. This is a must-listen for consultants, end-users, and business leaders focused on ERP transformation.(00:00) - Welcome to The Catch Up Podcast(01:46) - Steve Snowdon's Jounrey into ERP(05:31) - Contracting and Consulting Adventures(07:49) - Impact of COVID on Consulting(16:45) - Founding Snowden Consulting(25:32) - Initial Project Challenges(28:37) - Cost Implications of Cutting Corners(30:59) - Successful Project Implementation(32:55) - Growth and Challenges of a Consultancy(44:48) - Future Plans and AdviceSteve Snowden: Founder and CEO of Snowden Consulting Limited (SNCL), a Certified Microsoft Business Applications Partner. With a career that spans from Continuous Improvement Manager to a highly-regarded Microsoft Dynamics manufacturing solution architect, Steve is a renowned visionary innovator in integrating AI, ERP, and change management. Under his leadership, SNCL has been recognised as a Partner of the Year multiple times and is focused on delivering exceptional Dynamics 365 solutions with a 100% implementation success rate.Episode Insights:The personal and professional journey of scaling from an independent ERP contractor to the CEO of a successful consultancy.How the role of an ERP consultant has changed since the pre-1995 era and the impact of remote working post-COVID-19.The two fundamental "golden rules" for success in a complex global ERP rollout, relating to the template and data.The primary red flags and biggest challenge Steve faces when scoping a new Statement of Work (SOW) with a client.Why thorough User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is critical and how cutting corners on testing leads to costly issues down the line.Action Points:Prioritise the Global ERP Template: When planning a global rollout, base your first project on your most complex manufacturing or distribution site, not the simplest one like a sales office. This forces you to build a comprehensive template that can be scaled down, ensuring you don't face huge complications when moving to more intricate locations later. Getting this template right makes subsequent rollouts significantly easier for all countries.Focus on Data Quality from Day One: Treat data migration as a critical project component from the very beginning, not an afterthought. You must be absolutely at the top of your game with data governance as you integrate more applications. Get your data right early to avoid a difficult, upward battle with system performance and integrity for years to come.Invest in Thorough UAT: Do not allow the project to skip the essential phase of User Acceptance Testing (UAT). Steve’s golden rule is to aim for the high nineties for UAT completion. The money and time spent on this phase is paid back in spades by ensuring a smooth, successful go-live, preventing costly fixes and dissatisfied users post-launch.Maintain a Human-Centric Culture: For consulting leaders, focus on building a culture of camaraderie and human relationship building, which can be lost in a remote-first world. This not only improves team retention but also increases project success by fostering strong client relationships. This is what drives long-term client loyalty and repeat business.Evolve Your Skill Set with AI: Stay ahead of Microsoft’s rapid, twice-yearly updates and the deep integration of AI (like Copilot) within Dynamics 365. Encourage a learning culture where team members follow their interests to keep their skills up-to-date. As process becomes even more key with the advent of AI, continuous upskilling is essential for job security and competitive advantage.The Catch Up Podcast brings you candid conversations with industry leaders, consultants, and change-makers from the Microsoft Dynamics and tech ecosystem. Hosted by Phillip Blackmore, Sales Director at Catch Resource Management, each episode dives into the real stories behind business transformation, career pivots, and scaling success. ...
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    51 Min.
  • 45 Million Reasons to Get Your ERP Strategy Right with Lionel Wilson

    45 Million Reasons to Get Your ERP Strategy Right with Lionel Wilson
    Sep 25 2025

    Have you ever wondered why so many large-scale digital transformation projects go wrong?

    In this episode, host Philip Blackmore is joined by Lionel Wilson, an experienced digital transformation program lead, to unpack the hidden challenges of ERP and CRM implementations. Drawing from a career that spans from early IT systems to managing 35 international Dynamics 365 programs, Lionel shares a candid look at both his successes and his "war stories," including a project that failed after costing £45 million.

    The conversation delves into the critical difference between project and program management and reveals why the human element is often the key to success. The insights shared by Lionel are more relevant than ever, serving as a timely guide for anyone embarking on their own transformation journey.

    • (00:00) - Welcome to The Catch Up Podcast
    • (00:56) - Early Career and First Steps in IT
    • (03:37) - Journey into Microsoft Dynamics
    • (08:48) - The Importance of Communication in IT
    • (12:15) - Role of Program Managers vs Project Managers
    • (14:40) - Common Pitfalls in ERP Implementations
    • (24:30) - Consultancy vs. Client-Side Experience
    • (26:17) - Starting a Career in Project Management
    • (29:16) - The Value of Patience and Skill Development
    • (31:01) - Managing Contractor Expectations
    • (32:41) - Overcoming Significant Project Challenges
    • (35:33) - The Human Element in Project Management
    • (38:44) - Measuring Project Success
    • (44:10) - Key Advice for Implementing Microsoft Dynamics

    Lionel Wilson: An accomplished IT and project management professional and program lead at GENII Software Group. With over three decades of experience, he has founded his own consultancy, Illusioneering Limited, and has successfully delivered over 35 international implementations of large-scale, complex D365 programs for major end users. His expertise lies in navigating the intricate blend of technology and human dynamics to ensure project success.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • The tangible difference between a program manager and a project manager and why your business needs both.
    • Why the human element and managing people are more crucial to an ERP project than the technology itself.
    • Key red flags that signal a digital transformation is headed for failure, and how to spot them early.
    • The essential questions you should ask and the groundwork you must complete before embarking on a major ERP implementation.
    • The risks of treating a consulting partner as the sole owner of a project and why internal ownership is non-negotiable for success.


    Action Points:

    1. Conduct a Pre-Project Diagnostic: Before kicking off your digital transformation, spend at least one to two months on the RFP and initial project plan. Bring on an experienced program lead to help shape the RFP, ensuring you capture all complexities and set a realistic budget and timeline. This upfront work can save millions in the long run.
    2. Prioritise People Over Ego: When selecting a program manager, look for someone who acts as a facilitator, not a demagogue. Their role should be to engage and empower your internal teams by listening to their needs and guiding them to solutions, rather than imposing their own. This approach fosters ownership and increases the likelihood of user adoption and project success.
    3. Establish Clear Success Metrics: Define your KPIs and OKRs at the start of the project. Separate operational and technical delivery streams to create a more resilient structure. This allows for a more forgiving and adaptable approach to operational changes while keeping the project on track and accountable to its core goals.


    The Catch Up Podcast brings you candid conversations with industry leaders, consultants, and change-makers from the Microsoft Dynamics and tech ecosystem. Hosted by Phillip Blackmore, Sales Director at Catch Resource Management, each episode dives into the real stories behind business transformation, career pivots, and scaling success. Expect thoughtful interviews, practical insights, and honest reflections.

    Brought to you by Catch Resource Management, a leading UK recruitment specialist for Microsoft Dynamics and ERP talent, this podcast is your inside track to the people shaping the future of enterprise technology. Tune in for new episodes and stay ahead of the curve.

    Produced by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford, UK.

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    48 Min.
  • The Independent Journey: Shahzad Butt on Building a People-First ERP Consultancy

    The Independent Journey: Shahzad Butt on Building a People-First ERP Consultancy
    Aug 28 2025

    Have you ever wondered what it takes to transition from a full-time role to building a successful independent consultancy?

    In this insightful episode of The Catch Up Podcast, host Philip Blackmore sits down with Shahzad Butt, founder and director of ERP Advisors, to trace his career path. They discuss the critical transformation from an enterprise architect to a business leader, highlighting the lessons learned from working with both SAP and Microsoft Dynamics. Shahzad shares why knowing your subject matter and industry while putting the client first is the key to success. He also reflects on the personal challenges of starting an independent venture, including the feeling of loneliness, and the importance of having a curious mind.

    This episode offers valuable guidance for anyone in the technology space considering a similar career journey, emphasising that good is often perfect and that trusting your values can lead to success.

    • (00:00) - Welcome to the Catch Up Podcast
    • (02:02) - Shahzad's Early Career and First Technology Role
    • (04:22) - Challenges and Realizations in ERP Implementation
    • (08:49) - Independent Consulting Journey
    • (13:50) - Lessons from Global Projects
    • (20:48) - Advice for Aspiring Independent Consultants
    • (27:25) - Defining Success in Consulting
    • (29:59) - Common Pitfalls in Large ERP Projects
    • (36:35) - The Human Element in Business Success
    • (41:54) - Future Vision and AI Integration
    • (48:21) - Final Thoughts and Advice for ERP Projects

    Shahzad Butt: Founder and Director of ERP Advisors, Shahzad has over two decades of experience leading ERP transformations across industries and continents. His expertise spans SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, and global programme delivery, with a focus on building people-first consulting practices.


    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • How Shahzad Butt transitioned from SAP to Microsoft Dynamics and built ERP Advisors.
    • The biggest pitfalls in large-scale ERP and D365 projects.
    • Why independence in consulting can be both rewarding and lonely.
    • How culture and people-first values create long-term client success.
    • The role of AI and innovation in the future of ERP consulting.

    Action Points:

    1. Define Your "Why": Before going independent, be clear on your motivations. A strong purpose beyond money or flexibility increases your chances of success.
    2. Focus on People, Not Just Technology: Technology is only an enabler. Invest time in understanding client teams and processes to achieve transformation success.
    3. Be Transparent with Clients: Honesty and openness build trust. Clear communication helps clients make better decisions and ensures sustainable partnerships.
    4. Prepare for Independence: Expect challenges beyond financial risk, such as loneliness. Build a strong network of like-minded professionals to share the journey.
    5. Invest in Culture: Whether growing a consultancy or leading a team, prioritise culture. A people-first mindset fosters collaboration, motivation, and long-term growth.


    The Catch Up Podcast brings you candid conversations with industry leaders, consultants, and change-makers from the Microsoft Dynamics and tech ecosystem. Hosted by Phillip Blackmore, Sales Director at Catch Resource Management, each episode dives into the real stories behind business transformation, career pivots, and scaling success. Expect thoughtful interviews, practical insights, and honest reflections.

    Brought to you by Catch Resource Management, a leading UK recruitment specialist for Microsoft Dynamics and ERP talent, this podcast is your inside track to the people shaping the future of enterprise technology. Tune in for new episodes and stay ahead of the curve.

    Produced by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford, UK.

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    53 Min.
  • Tony Riches on Critical Factors for ERP Success

    Tony Riches on Critical Factors for ERP Success
    Jul 31 2025

    What does it really take to lead a successful ERP program?

    In this episode of The Catch Up, host Philip Blackmore sits down with seasoned Program Director and published author Tony Riches to uncover the realities of large-scale digital transformation. Drawing on decades of experience, Tony shares surprising war stories, practical advice, and lessons learned from both client-side and consultancy roles. From the chaos of failed invoice systems to the nuances of stakeholder engagement, Tony dives into what makes or breaks a program.

    The conversation explores the critical importance of the first 90 days, the overlooked dangers of customisation, and how to manage communication across complex stakeholder groups. Whether you're an ERP project sponsor, transformation leader, or simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes of global rollouts, this episode is packed with insights that will change how you think about program success.

    • (00:00) - Welcome to the Catch Up Podcast
    • (01:56) - First Major Project at GSK
    • (03:02) - Transition to Program Management
    • (04:11) - Learning on the Job
    • (05:42) - Challenges in ERP Implementation
    • (08:21) - Client vs. Consultancy Perspectives
    • (10:40) - Critical Success Factors in Projects
    • (24:56) - Navigating Customization Challenges
    • (28:38) - Hitachi Solutions and Exponential Growth
    • (38:11) - Tony's Writing and Charity film

    Tony Riches: Program Director and author with decades of experience leading ERP and transformation programs across sectors. His deep understanding of business, change management, and solution delivery makes him a trusted expert in turning around complex projects.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • Why the first 90 days of an ERP program set the tone for long-term success
    • How failed implementations can shape a career in transformation
    • The real reasons ERP projects fail (and it’s not usually the software)
    • How to push back on unnecessary customisation requests
    • What makes client-side program management uniquely difficult


    Takeaways:

    1. Set the First 90 Days Up for Success: Ensure stakeholder alignment, define clear roles, and embed strong governance structures early. Tony argues that what you do in the first three months determines your outcome. Without strong foundations, recovery becomes exponentially harder.
    2. Choose the Right People: Build your team with "leaders of the day after tomorrow" — rising stars who understand the business and earn shop floor trust. These individuals become the bridge between vision and execution. Investing in the right people early improves both adoption and outcomes.
    3. Push Back on Customisation: Don’t let customisation requests derail the program. Instead, ask what the business impact is if the request isn’t met and consider alternatives like manual workarounds. This preserves system integrity and long-term maintainability.
    4. Communicate with Authenticity and Strategy: Tailor your approach to different stakeholders, but stay true to your own style. Understand what motivates each person and frame your message accordingly. This builds trust and influence across the organisation.
    5. Bring in Independent Assurance: Every program needs a battle-scarred advisor who can identify risks early. Having someone independent of both the consultancy and internal delivery team provides objective oversight. It's the safety net most programs lack until it's too late.

    The Catch Up Podcast brings you candid conversations with industry leaders, consultants, and change-makers from the Microsoft Dynamics and tech ecosystem. Hosted by Phillip Blackmore, Sales Director at Catch Resource Management, each episode dives into the real stories behind business transformation, career pivots, and scaling success. Expect thoughtful interviews, practical insights, and honest reflections.

    Brought to you by Catch Resource Management, a leading UK recruitment specialist for Microsoft Dynamics and ERP talent, this podcast is your inside track to the people shaping the future of enterprise technology. Tune in for new episodes and stay ahead of the curve.

    Produced by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford, UK.

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    40 Min.
  • How to Succeed in the Microsoft Dynamics Ecosystem with James Downes

    How to Succeed in the Microsoft Dynamics Ecosystem with James Downes
    Jun 26 2025

    What does it take to thrive in the Microsoft Dynamics ecosystem?

    In this episode of The Catch Up Podcast, host Phillip Blackmore sits down with James Downes, Partner at EY, to explore a 25-year journey through tech consulting, solution architecture, and leadership in the Microsoft space.

    From starting out with Great Plains in the late '90s to leading global ERP implementations, James shares insights into career growth, network-building, and the culture shifts between partner and end-user environments. Listeners will learn why listening is a superpower, how the Dynamics community has evolved, and why adaptability is key to long-term success.

    Whether you’re an aspiring consultant, seasoned technical lead, or considering a move to a Big Four environment, James’s journey offers practical advice and inspiration.

    • (00:00) - Welcome to the Catch Up Podcast
    • (00:37) - Early Career and First Role in Microsoft Dynamics
    • (02:07) - Transition to Technical Architect and MVP Journey
    • (03:28) - Career Growth and Networking
    • (06:18) - Key Lessons and Community Insights
    • (11:35) - Joining KPMG and Culture Shift
    • (13:33) - Independent Consulting and ASOS Project
    • (17:19) - End User vs Partner Channel Experience
    • (23:30) - Big Four Experience and Entrepreneurial Spirit
    • (29:43) - Advice for Major Technology Implementations
    • (32:33) - Final Thoughts and Reflections

    James Downes: Partner at EY with over 25 years of experience in Microsoft Dynamics. James specialises in global ERP delivery, solution architecture, and consulting leadership. He has worked across end-user and partner organisations, including roles at ASOS, KPMG, and PwC.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • How James Downes built a career in Microsoft Dynamics over 25 years
    • Why networking and reputation matter in niche tech communities
    • The differences between partner and end-user environments in consulting
    • How the Dynamics ecosystem has evolved over time
    • Key traits for success in large-scale ERP implementations


    Action Points:

    1. Build Long-Term Relationships: Keep in touch with former colleagues and peers. A strong professional network can lead to future opportunities and collaborations you never saw coming.
    2. Listen Before You Lead: Strong leadership in tech isn't about speaking first — it's about understanding others. Make space to truly listen before offering solutions.
    3. Adapt to Culture Shifts: Moving between partners, end-users, and Big Four firms requires agility. Understand how expectations and working styles shift in each environment.
    4. Get the Right People In Early: For any transformation project, assemble a team with the right experience from day one. A capable program director and business-side lead can make or break success.
    5. Stay Curious and Evolve: From technical consultant to EY Partner, James's career shows the importance of continuous learning. Be open to taking on roles outside your comfort zone to grow.


    The Catch Up Podcast brings you candid conversations with industry leaders, consultants, and change-makers from the Microsoft Dynamics and tech ecosystem. Hosted by Phillip Blackmore, Sales Director at Catch Resource Management, each episode dives into the real stories behind business transformation, career pivots, and scaling success. Expect thoughtful interviews, practical insights, and honest reflections.

    Brought to you by Catch Resource Management, a leading UK recruitment specialist for Microsoft Dynamics and ERP talent, this podcast is your inside track to the people shaping the future of enterprise technology. Tune in for new episodes and stay ahead of the curve.

    Produced by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford, UK.

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    33 Min.
  • From Invoice Clerk to Program Director: Kerry Hughes Wright on Climbing the D365 Career Ladder

    From Invoice Clerk to Program Director: Kerry Hughes Wright on Climbing the D365 Career Ladder
    May 29 2025

    What does it take to lead a global Microsoft Dynamics 365 project across dozens of countries and legacy systems?

    In this episode of The Catch Up Podcast, host Phillip Blackmore is joined by Kerry Hughes Wright, a seasoned delivery leader with decades of experience in ERP transformations. Together, they unpack the complexities of global rollouts, the nuances of team and process management, and the real-world challenges of implementing D365 Finance & Operations across a rapidly expanding enterprise.

    "One of the reasons I was able to kind of progress into some of the roles I progressed into was I had that exposure to literally every single part of a business. That for me was my college, it was my university." - Kerry Hughes Wright


    Kerry shares her fascinating journey from leaving school at 16 to leading enterprise-wide technology programmes, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how successful ERP delivery is shaped not by technology alone, but by people, process, and perseverance.

    With honest reflections, strategic guidance, and practical examples, this episode is essential listening for CIOs, project leaders, and anyone navigating digital transformation in large organisations.


    • (00:00) - From Invoice Clerk to Program Director: Kerry Hughes-Wright on Climbing the D365 Career Ladder
    • (01:00) - Kerry's Early Career and First Job
    • (05:13) - Transition to Technology and Consulting
    • (06:35) - Project Management and Higher Education
    • (07:31) - Career Progression and Industry Experience
    • (11:15) - Leadership Roles and Methodologies
    • (15:02) - Challenges in the Partner Channel
    • (16:57) - Joining Lloyd's and Adapting to Change
    • (22:45) - Moving to HCL and Expanding Expertise
    • (29:03) - Current Role and Global Rollout
    • (36:23) - Success Stories and Methodologies
    • (40:42) - Final Advice and Conclusion

    Kerry Hughes Wright: A global programme lead and ERP transformation expert, Kerry has over 40 years of experience in business operations and delivery leadership. She currently leads a complex global rollout of Microsoft D365 Finance & Operations and is known for her people-first, methodology-driven approach to programme success.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • How to structure and lead a successful D365 Finance & Operations programme
    • Why people and processes matter more than technology in ERP delivery
    • Key considerations when integrating legacy systems and managing data quality
    • The importance of methodology, project planning, and using Azure DevOps
    • Career advice for professionals entering the Microsoft D365 ecosystem

    Action Points:

    1. Prioritise People in Your Programme: Ensure you dedicate knowledgeable internal staff to the project and backfill their roles. People who know the business processes are vital to success.
    2. Clean Your Data Early: Start cleansing and standardising your data well before implementation begins. It simplifies migration and reduces downstream issues.
    3. Define and Follow a Methodology: Use a clear and consistent delivery methodology to align teams, track progress, and avoid chaos. Kerry recommends structured tools like Azure DevOps.
    4. Build a Super User Network: Develop a strong network of champions across your organisation. This fosters adoption, knowledge sharing, and local accountability.
    5. Don’t Rush Career Progression: For those entering the D365 space, focus on learning deeply before jumping ahead. Solid experience builds credibility and long-term success.


    The Catch Up Podcast brings you candid conversations with industry leaders, consultants, and change-makers from the Microsoft Dynamics and tech ecosystem. Hosted by Phillip Blackmore, Sales Director at Catch Resource Management, each episode dives into the real stories behind business transformation, career pivots, and scaling success. Expect thoughtful interviews, practical insights, and honest reflections.

    Brought to you by Catch Resource Management, a leading UK recruitment specialist for Microsoft Dynamics and ERP talent, this podcast is your inside track to the people shaping the future of enterprise technology. Tune in for new episodes and stay ahead of the curve.

    Produced by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford, UK.

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    43 Min.