6 minute read
In this edition of our "Meet the Team" series, we spoke with John Mappley, Senior Technical Consultant here at Xperate. In this interview, we find out why he joined Xperate, what motivates him in his ever-evolving role, how he helps keep our systems running smoothly behind the scenes, as well as how he unwinds outside of work.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Xperate.
I’ve been fortunate to work alongside Simon Hill and Mark Garnish for over two decades now, so joining Xperate felt like a natural next step when the company launched.
My official title is Senior Technical Consultant, but I wear quite a few hats - some of which resemble that of an unofficial IT Manager. My day-to-day involves everything from technical consultancy and systems mapping to product deployment and installation. I’m the go-to person when our clients need help with Microsoft 365, Azure, connectivity, and general system requirements. Whether it’s supporting a software rollout or solving complex infrastructure challenges, I’m here to help guide those conversations.
Internally, I provide first, second, and third-line support to the wider Xperate team, ensuring our systems run smoothly and securely. That includes managing email branding, overseeing desktop setups for our 145+ users, and keeping everything aligned with company standards. I work closely with our team in Pune, and we’ve built a great collaborative relationship over time.
I also head up our work on ISO 27001 and Cyber Essentials to ensure we meet the expectations of our larger clients. This type of compliance work is becoming increasingly important, and I enjoy the challenge of keeping us ahead of the curve.
Why did you want to join Xperate, and what is it about working at Xperate that you enjoy most?
I joined Xperate in February 2023, at a time when the company was still growing rapidly. Back then, we had around 15 people in the UK and just over 50 in Pune. Fast forward to now, and we’ve grown to a team of 145 with a global presence across Europe, North America, and Australia. It’s been an exciting journey to be a part of.
One of the big draws for me was the chance to reconnect with so many familiar faces. Having worked with Simon and Mark before, as well as former colleagues like Stuart Hatt and Becky Patterson, it felt like coming home. There’s something really special about working with people you trust and respect - it makes a big difference to your day-to-day life.
What I enjoy most about Xperate is the culture. It’s collaborative, flexible, and focused on providing genuine value to clients. We aim to offer cost-effective solutions that genuinely solve problems, particularly for clients who may not have access to this kind of technical support elsewhere. It’s rewarding to be part of that journey with them.
Xperate is also great at evolving with the times. We adapt quickly to market shifts and client needs, which keeps the work interesting. And above all, we work with brilliant people - both within the business and externally. That’s what really makes the job enjoyable: a great team, supportive leadership, and a shared commitment to doing things the right way.
Why is ISO 27001 certification so important for Xperate and its clients?
ISO 27001 is vital for Xperate because many of the institutions we work with require a high level of assurance when it comes to data protection and information security. These requirements are often tied to their own internal policies or insurance standards, so being ISO certified is not just a “nice-to-have" - it’s essential for building trust with the right kind of clients.
While it’s more common to see ISO 27001 in larger organisations, we felt strongly that it was the right step for us too. It’s not just about meeting client expectations, it’s about becoming a better-organised, better-run business. At the end of the process, you’re left with a solid framework of policies and procedures that help everything run more smoothly.
It’s certainly not a simple task, there’s a bit of “no pain, no gain” involved, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the effort. Becky and I work closely together to maintain our ISO 27001 and Cyber Essentials certifications, and we both take great pride in upholding those standards.
Without accreditations like these, it’s easy for any company, big or small, to slip into bad habits. That introduces risk not only to us but to the clients who rely on us. Certification helps ensure that we’re continually improving and keeping our clients’ data secure.
How do you ensure that internal IT systems at Xperate remain secure without disrupting productivity?
Maintaining secure and reliable internal systems is a top priority at Xperate, and it's all about striking the right balance between protection and practicality. We make sure our systems are continuously maintained and monitored, so issues are dealt with before they become problems.
Key security measures like antivirus protection and two-factor authentication are absolutely essential. They form the backbone of our defence without creating unnecessary barriers for the team. We also rely on our Cyber Essentials certification, which gives us a structured annual check to make sure our systems and practices are up to standard.
Ultimately, it’s about creating an environment where security is embedded into the way we work, without slowing anyone down. We want our team to feel safe and supported, not restricted.
What advice would you give to companies just starting their journey toward ISO certification or improved information security?
If you're thinking about ISO 27001 certification, go for it. It’s absolutely worth the effort. Beyond just meeting client expectations, it opens up new opportunities and helps you better understand the risks and responsibilities within your business.
One of the biggest benefits is how it brings structure to your processes. You'll end up with a clear set of policies and procedures that guide how you operate, which makes day-to-day business smoother and more resilient.
That said, don’t try to go it alone. Find a reputable partner who really understands the process and can support you through it. ISO isn’t something you just tick off once and forget; it’s ongoing, and you need to maintain it year-round. But if done properly, it genuinely helps you run a better, more secure business.
What motivates you to achieve success?
For me, it’s about the variety and constant evolution of the work. No two days are the same at Xperate, and I really enjoy that. While many integrations share common elements, each one brings its own unique twist, so there’s always something new to figure out. That keeps things fresh, engaging, and far from repetitive.
I’m particularly motivated by the opportunity to improve, not just in terms of personal growth, but in the systems and tools we deliver to both our team and our clients. Every piece of work is a chance to refine what we do and find better, smarter ways to do it.
I take real pride in looking after our internal Microsoft 365 environment and staying on top of new features. There’s always emerging tech out there, internally and externally, and I love exploring how we can make the most of it. Whether it’s introducing new tools, improving system efficiency, or just making life easier for our users, that sense of progress is what drives me.
It’s a job that’s never really ‘done’, and that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding.
How do you unwind outside of work?
I’m definitely someone who likes to get outside and make the most of the fresh air, especially when the weather’s nice. My wife and I have always had rescue dogs, and our current one, Oscar, a rescue from Serbia, is full of energy and a lot of fun to walk. We often explore the Hampshire countryside together, whether that’s along the Downs or through the many villages nearby. It’s also a great excuse to catch up with friends who have dogs too.
I also love sailing and head off at least once a year with an old university friend. We usually make our way to the Pembrokeshire coast in Wales, where we’ll spend a few days out on the water. It’s a brilliant way to completely switch off and recharge.
Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
