Hear from Nicola Thorn on the Made in Essex Podcast. How Internal R&D Can Supercharge Scalable Growth.
When Dr. Nicola Thorn took over the reins of AND Technology, she faced the challenge of stepping into a leadership role in a family business while navigating the demands of a competitive tech industry
With a strong focus on innovation and impactful projects, Nicola has led the company to new heights, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.
How Internal R&D Can Supercharge Scalable Growth. Enjoy the full conversation here.
Leading a family business comes with unique hurdles. In this episode of Made in Essex, Jill Willis invites Nicola Thorn, CEO of the Epping-based software development consultancy, to share her journey. From overcoming initial doubts to pioneering MedTech innovations and driving collaborative growth, Nicola reveals what it takes to thrive in Essex’s burgeoning tech ecosystem.
Overcoming the Challenges of Family Business Leadership
Stepping into the CEO seat at AND Technology was a proud but daunting moment for Nicola. “I felt proud more than anything,” she recalls. “But slightly daunted too. I didn’t quite know what I was doing in some senses.” Taking over a family business, particularly one led by her mother since 1980, brought its own set of expectations and challenges.
For Nicola, the first step was to find her footing and build a vision that balanced her mother’s legacy with her own ideas. “Because it’s a small team, I knew it was crucial to take time to integrate and understand what my staff wanted,” she explains. By fostering a collaborative culture, Nicola was able to guide the company toward a shared direction of growth and purpose.
Breaking Barriers as a Woman in Tech
Nicola is no stranger to breaking barriers. As a woman leading a tech business, she understands the importance of visibility and representation. “Having role models is key,” she says. “I was fortunate to have my mum as an example of what’s possible for women in tech, but not everyone has that.”
She emphasises the need for more initiatives that spotlight successful women in technology, helping to inspire the next generation. Whether mentoring female clinicians through the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme or sharing her own journey, Nicola is passionate about creating opportunities for women to thrive in tech.
Building a Collaborative Essex Tech Community
Nicola is also a champion for collaboration in the local tech ecosystem. Through initiatives like the West Essex Tech Forum, she’s helping to put Essex on the map as a tech hub. “We’re bringing together businesses from all industries to share ideas, access funding, and drive digital transformation,” she explains.
With partnerships involving Harlow Council, Anglia Ruskin’s Arise Innovation Hub, and the University of Essex, the forum is creating opportunities for companies to connect and innovate. “It’s about showing the breadth of talent in Essex and creating a supportive environment for growth,” Nicola adds.
Nicola Thorn was talking to Jill Willis, Director of Attract & Engage and host of the Made in Essex Podcast.
Catch the full episode here or listen wherever you get your podcasts.👇
Keep your eyes peeled for more episodes as Jill invites the county’s most tenacious and successful business leaders to lift the bonnet on their entrepreneurial stories.
How Internal R&D Can Supercharge Scalable Growth – Made in Essex – The Podcast With Dr. Nicola Thorn
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