First Lead is directed by Dr. Keri Billen. His unique skill is turning the vaguest idea into a defined product concept with a structured implementation and effective cross-functional teams. He has a very strong track record with 'cradle to grave’ projects and programmes, from product definition to profitable reality.
With a natural curiosity and ability to understand how things work, Keri can apply himself to many types of high-tech products, and is very keen to take on leading-edge ideas and revolutionary concepts. The products he works on are always state-of-the-art and networked, including internet-of-things (IoT) devices.
Keri is PRINCE2-certified, has a diploma in management, and has a Ph.D in physics.
Having travelled to nearly 40 countries, worked with many nationalities for decades, and lived overseas, Keri is adept at international stakeholder management and multi-cultural projects and programmes. Most of First Lead’s contracts to date were for clients outside the UK.
COMPETENCES
End-to-end programme and project management, covering software, hardware, back-end systems, operations, line management of project managers, and end-user support.
Enthusiastic communicator who fosters positive relationships, and can bring together disparate stakeholder groups in complex multi-cultural and international organisations. This includes cross-functional teams, suppliers and customers (from engineering to CxO level) and internal management. Can do this consummately even when located remotely.
Able to kick-start a new concept/opportunity, even a nebulous one, by purposeful technical leadership and brainstorming the use cases.
Always striving to be a constructive, approachable, purposeful and trustworthy example to others.
