Insights

From Zoology to COO

Written by Richard Patridge | Nov 19, 2025 3:03:25 PM

Curiosity, challenges, and a change in direction

I didn’t start out in tech - my early career was spent in conservation, working hands-on in zoos and exploring the natural world, a passion that led me to study Zoology at Aberystwyth University.

I’ve never thought of myself as particularly academic, and living with dyslexia brought its own set of challenges, but I was determined. That same determination drove me to complete an MSc in Computer Science at the University of Kent, fueled by a growing love of problem-solving and the possibilities that technology could unlock.

Looking back, that change in direction was a turning point. It didn’t just open a door to a new industry; it gave me the confidence to keep evolving.

Stepping in and stepping up at Newline

In 2003, I joined Newline as a web developer. But from early on, I found myself drawn to more than just the code. I wanted to understand how things worked across the business and how we could make them work better.

That curiosity led me to challenge existing processes, introduce new tools, and help improve everything from communication and project management to customer service. It wasn’t long before I stepped into leadership, first managing our customer support team, then overseeing all operations.

The Jonas Europe chapter

One of the most significant moments in my career came in 2021, when Newline was acquired by Jonas Europe.

Like many acquisitions, it brought a period of change and uncertainty, but what followed was a real turning point. Becoming part of Jonas introduced us to a broader network of software companies, each with their own experience, insight, and ways of working. It opened the door to new ideas, proven strategies, and the kind of collaboration that’s helped us grow stronger, faster, and more confidently than we could have alone.

Since then, we’ve:

  • Grown our team from 14 to 25
  • Reinvested in our people
  • Strengthened our products and operations
  • Built a solid foundation for future expansion

Being part of Jonas Europe has given us the tools to scale sustainably.

Leading the Team

Today, as Chief Operating Officer, I lead both our R&D and operations teams. My focus is on building an environment where people feel empowered, supported, and connected, where collaboration and continuous improvement are part of our everyday culture.

We’re building a team that’s:

  • Cohesive and collaborative
  • Skilled and motivated
  • Committed to great customer experiences and ongoing innovation

I’ve always believed that the strength of any business lies in its people. That’s why, alongside my role at Newline, I also lead the Employee Forum Network across the Jonas Europe Group, giving employees across our portfolio a voice and a space to help shape the future of their companies.

Being part of the Jonas family has only reinforced my belief in the power of investing in people. When we trust each other to grow, share ideas, and take ownership, amazing things happen.