Meet Gary Winstanley, our IT Director with over 29 years of experience in delivering customer excellence by overseeing the entire IT strategy whilst having a passion for developing Langdon’s products and software.
PROFESSIONAL INSIGHTS:
1) Can you tell us a bit about your role at Langdon and what a typical day looks like for you?
Having spent 29 years at Langdon, I’ve had the privilege to grow with the company and play a significant role in its evolution as a leader in duty management software. Currently, as IT Director, my role encompasses overseeing the entire IT strategy, ensuring our systems are robust, secure, and aligned with our clients’ needs. However, my passion for software development remains strong, and I continue to be hands-on in developing our products. A typical day includes strategic planning sessions, team meetings to discuss ongoing projects, coding sessions where I actively contribute to the development of new features, and collaborating with our solutions architects to design innovative software solutions. Balancing high-level strategy with technical development keeps me closely connected to both our team and the pulse of our products, ensuring we consistently deliver excellence to our clients.
2) What drew you to the Customs and Excise Solutions industry?
Customs and excise solutions are at the core of global trade, and I’ve always been fascinated by the complex interplay of regulations, compliance, and technology that makes international commerce possible. The challenge of turning complex commercial data into seamless UK customs declarations was compelling. Langdon provided the perfect opportunity to merge my passion for software development with a critical industry that is constantly evolving and always presents new challenges.
3) What is the most challenging aspect of your job and how do you overcome it?
One of the most challenging aspects is staying ahead of the constantly changing regulations in the customs and excise landscape. To overcome this, I’ve fostered a culture of continuous learning within the team. We regularly engage with industry experts, participate in workshops, and closely monitor regulatory changes. By embedding this proactive approach into our work culture, we ensure our solutions are always compliant and ahead of the curve.
4) How do you stay updated with the ever-changing regulations in customs and excise?
Staying updated is crucial in our field. I subscribe to key industry publications, participate in customs and excise webinars, and engage in networking events to understand regulatory changes and trends. Additionally, Langdon has built strong relationships with industry bodies, allowing us to receive timely updates and insights directly from the source. This proactive approach helps us keep our solutions compliant and innovative.
PERSONAL TOUCH:
5) What do you enjoy most about working in this industry?
What I enjoy most is the constant evolution of the customs and excise landscape. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to innovate. The dynamic nature of the industry keeps me on my toes, and the satisfaction of creating solutions that have a tangible impact on global trade is immensely fulfilling.
6) How do you unwind after a busy day ensuring compliance and smooth customs operations?
After a busy day, I enjoy unwinding by immersing myself in computer gaming or watching a good movie. Gaming allows me to disconnect from work while still challenging my mind in new and exciting ways, enhancing my problem-solving skills in a different context. On the other hand, watching movies helps me relax and get lost in storytelling, providing a great way to recharge. Both hobbies, along with spending time with my partner or taking a long walk, help me maintain a balanced and refreshed mindset for the next day’s challenges.
COMPANY CULTURE:
7) What do you appreciate most about the team at Langdon?
The team at Langdon is exceptional. We have a culture that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. Everyone is dedicated to our clients’ success and brings a unique perspective to the table. It’s this diversity of thought and commitment to excellence that makes Langdon a great place to work.
8) How does Langdon support your professional growth and development?
Langdon is exceptional in how it supports professional growth by providing its people with the freedom to explore new ideas and take ownership of their projects. The company understands that creativity is the key to innovation, and it encourages everyone to think outside the box and bring fresh perspectives to the table. This autonomy allows us to experiment with new technologies, propose innovative solutions, and continuously improve our products and services. This environment of trust and freedom has been instrumental in my own journey from a developer to IT Director, enabling me to grow, lead, and stay deeply engaged with the evolving needs of our clients.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE:
9) What trends do you see shaping the future of the Customs and Excise Solutions industry?
The future of the customs and excise solutions industry will be shaped by increasing digitalization and the need for more integrated and streamlined processes. As global trade continues to expand and regulations become more complex, there will be a growing demand for solutions that simplify compliance and provide real-time visibility into customs operations. The emphasis will be on developing more intuitive, user-friendly platforms that can handle large volumes of data and adapt quickly to regulatory changes, ensuring businesses remain compliant while optimising their operations.
