The working life of CTO, Matt Ratliff

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2019-10-14

Get to Know Matt Ratliff who is Chief Technology Officer at Sort limited. Find out what he enjoys about working for SortRefer, advice for those wanting to work in tech and what he likes to do in his spare time.

When did you join SortRefer?

I joined Sort Group in January but it already seems like a lot longer – in a good way!

What were your previous job roles?

I’ve been working in tech my entire career starting life in quality assurance, software development, solution architecture and for the last 10 years’ management.  The majority of that time I was working at huge organisations like Fujitsu and Experian, but I’ve also been part of delivery teams in smaller software houses working on commercial projects and innovative tech.  My last role was leading the delivery function for a company providing photography solutions for the global leisure industry.

What do you enjoy about working for SortRefer?

I’m enjoying the challenge of learning a completely new industry, trying to find innovative solutions to commercial problems and helping to bring the best of enterprise best practice but distilling it down to work in a more dynamic and fluid environment.

What is the most common question you get asked when at work?

“When will it be ready?”

What advice would you give someone who wants to work in Tech?

Pay your dues.  Technology moves so quickly, very few will have the luxury of working on the latest technology all the time and those that do already have solid foundations and experience.  Experiencing all aspects of product design, development and support will give you skills that can transfer to any future technology role.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I love a trip to the cinema or binge watching box sets on Netflix. Stereotypically, I also play a lot of video games when time allows.

I’ve also just qualified as a British Swimming official and regularly judge at events when my kids are competing. 

Tell us something most people don’t know about you?

Very little, I share too much!

What’s your favourite food?

Got to be my regular Friday night take-out curry!