???Keeping Up With Conspicuous – Season 3???

Welcome to 2025 & Season 3!

Welcome to the first newsletter of 2025 and the kick-off to Season 3 of Keeping Up With Conspicuous! ??

Before we dive into the exciting guests we’ve had on recently, we have to start with a HUGE milestone, last week marked Conspicuous' 25th anniversary! ??

For 25 years, Conspicuous has been a driving force in the Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Power Platform community, connecting top-tier talent with the best companies in the industry. What started as a small recruitment firm has grown into a global leader, supporting professionals and businesses in navigating the ever-evolving Dynamics and tech landscape.

A massive thank you to our clients, candidates, podcast guests, and listeners for your continued support. We’re thrilled to be kicking off another exciting year, filled with expert insights, career inspiration, and industry-leading discussions!

As we start Season 3, we’ll be recapping our incredible December and January guests, uncovering key themes and takeaways, and looking ahead to our exciting February line-up.

Let’s get started...

?? Guest Recap: December 2024

Mary Myers – Maximise Dynamics 365 with the Power Platform

We kicked off December with Mary Myers , Chief Maximizer at WorldMax and a 3x Microsoft MVP. Mary shared her expertise on how the Power Platform integrates with Dynamics 365 Business Central, transforming workflows through automation and AI-powered tools like Copilot.

?? Key Insights:

• How automation is driving productivity in Business Central.
• Real-world success stories of Power Platform transformations.
• The role of AI in streamlining business operations.
• Why "working smarter, not harder" should be every organisation’s goal.

?? Learn more about WorldMax here.

?? Watch the full episode below:

Kevin Ingrey – From Consultant to Architect: Mastering the Leap

Next, we welcomed Kevin Ingrey on the podcast to discuss one of the biggest career transitions in the Dynamics industry—moving from consultant to architect. Kevin shared his insider tips, focusing on the balance between technical expertise and soft skills.

?? Key Takeaways:

• The skills and mindset shift needed to transition to an architect role.
• Why communication and leadership are just as crucial as technical knowledge.
• How to avoid common career pitfalls, including premature promotions.
• Insights into the Dynamics industry’s evolving career landscape.

?? Watch the full episode below:

Gilbert Escobar – Do’s and Don’ts of Transitioning from Dynamics GP to Business Central

The legendary Gilbert Escobar , Client Success Manager at ACE Micro, LLC , joined us for a bonus episode packed with practical advice on ERP migration. Known for his “super positive” energy, Gil broke down best practices for transitioning from Dynamics GP to Business Central.

?? Key Takeaways:

• The most common mistakes companies make when migrating.
• How to ensure a smooth ERP transition without disrupting operations.
• Why training and change management are critical for success.
• The future of Business Central and why companies should consider the move.

?? Learn more about ACE Micro, LLC here.

?? Watch the full episode below:

?? Guest Recap: January 2025

Peter Ridlington FPFS – Lessons in Scaling: From Big Budgets to Startups

To kick off 2025, Peter Ridlington FPFS, CEO of Ningi and host of the Advice Amplified podcast, joined us to discuss scaling software companies, low-code/no-code solutions, and leadership in fintech.

?? Key Takeaways:

• Why small, agile teams often outperform larger ones.
• The rise of low-code/no-code platforms in financial services.
• Lessons from moving from big-budget corporate projects to a thriving start-up.

?? Learn more about Ningi here.

?? Watch the full episode below:

Stephanie Stasey ???? – Breaking Barriers: Copilot, AI, and Inclusion in Tech

Stephanie Stasey ????, Customer Success Account Manager for the NHS at Microsoft and co-founder of the Bletchley AI User Group, shared insights on AI’s impact in healthcare and the importance of neurodiversity in tech innovation.

?? Key Takeaways:

• How AI is transforming healthcare and the NHS.
• The power of neurodiversity in driving innovation.
• Why inclusivity is essential in AI development.

?? Learn more about Bletchley AI User Group here.

?? Watch the full episode below:

Parvez Ghumra – Breaking into Contracting: Tips & Insights

Parvez Ghumra, Founder and Owner of XRM Solutions UK contractor and Microsoft Business Applications MVP, joined us for a highly practical and insightful discussion on navigating the world of IT contracting, breaking down the opportunities, risks, and key strategies for success in the Dynamics 365 and Power Platform space.

His episode has been our most-viewed podcast of the year so far, proving just how valuable and in-demand these insights are for professionals considering the move into contracting.

?? Key Takeaways:

• Breaking into contracting—how to transition from permanent roles to contracting without uncertainty.
• The pros and cons of contracting—understanding job security, flexibility, and financial considerations before making the switch.
• How to position yourself for success—the importance of personal branding, networking, and building a strong client pipeline.
• Common mistakes new contractors make—and how to avoid them.

?? Check out Parvez's blog here (website is currently down).

?? Watch the full episode below:

Justine Beavis – Mastering Tech Marketing: Stand Out as a Microsoft Partner

Marketing is often overlooked in the Microsoft ecosystem, but Justine Beavis, Co-Director of Supercell365 - Microsoft Dynamics 365, Power Platform & Copilot Experts and founder of One Engine. Technology Marketing Consultancy and Partner Alliance Management. , showed us why it’s a game-changer for Microsoft Partners and tech businesses.

With years of experience working with Microsoft Partners, Justine broke down how businesses can differentiate themselves in a competitive market, build trust with their audience, and leverage data-driven marketing strategies to drive long-term success.

?? Key Takeaways:

• Standing out in the Microsoft Partner space—why branding and positioning matter more than ever.
• Maximising ROI through strategic marketing—how Microsoft Partners can improve customer engagement with data-driven campaigns.
• Real-world success stories—examples of transformational marketing strategies that have helped businesses grow.
• The role of trust and collaboration—why Microsoft Partners should prioritise strong relationships with both customers and vendors.

?? Learn more about Supercell365 here.

?? Watch the full episode below:

Craig Fretwell – AI Risks & Cybersecurity: Expert Insights from a 3x Microsoft MVP

For Conspicuous’ 25th Anniversary Special Episode, we welcomed Craig Fretwell [MVP] , Global Head of SOC at Rackspace Technology and 3x Microsoft MVP, to discuss the growing cybersecurity risks posed by AI.

With AI-generated misinformation, deepfakes, and automated hacking on the rise, Craig shared how businesses can protect themselves against emerging threats.

?? Key Takeaways:

• AI is being weaponised—from automated cyberattacks to AI-generated scams, the risks are evolving fast.
• Deepfakes & misinformation—how AI is being used to manipulate public perception and business operations.
• The future of AI in security—how ethical AI development and robust security measures can mitigate risks.
• What businesses must do today—practical steps to enhance cybersecurity, stay compliant, and safeguard data.

?? Learn more about Rackspace Technology here.

?? Watch the full episode below:

?? Key Takeaways & Industry Trends

1?? AI is the Future—But So Is Security

AI is transforming everything—from automation in Business Central, to AI-driven cybersecurity threats, to Copilot-enhanced productivity.

• Mary Myers explored how AI-driven automation is revolutionising workflows in Business Central, helping businesses streamline operations and save time.
• Stephanie Stasey showcased how AI is improving healthcare, particularly in the NHS.
• Craig Fretwell warned that AI is also powering cyber threats, with deepfakes, AI-generated misinformation, and automated hacking becoming bigger concerns.

?? Key Takeaway: AI adoption is no longer optional—but businesses need to invest in security, compliance, and ethical AI practices to stay protected.

2?? Contracting Is on the Rise in the Dynamics 365 & Power Platform Space

With businesses shifting towards flexible workforce models, the demand for IT contractors is growing—and Parvez Mohammed’s episode on contracting has been our most-viewed of the year.

• Parvez shared insights on breaking into contracting, explaining how professionals can transition from full-time roles, navigate job security, and build a strong network.
• The Microsoft ecosystem is evolving, with many companies choosing contractors for specialised projects rather than full-time hires.
• New contractors often struggle with pricing, self-promotion, and adapting to fluctuating demand—but Parvez provided actionable advice on avoiding common pitfalls.

?? Key Takeaway: Contracting is a major opportunity in the Dynamics 365 and Power Platform space, but professionals need to position themselves well, build a strong reputation, and understand the financial implications before making the leap.

3?? Soft Skills Are More Important Than Ever for Career Growth

The technical skills gap is shrinking, but differentiation now comes from communication, leadership, and problem-solving—a point emphasised by Kevin Ingrey, Peter Ridlington, and Justine Beavis.

• Kevin Ingrey highlighted how moving from consultant to architect requires not just technical expertise, but also stakeholder management and strategic thinking.
• Peter Ridlington discussed how small, agile teams can often outperform larger organisations, thanks to better collaboration and adaptability.
• Justine Beavis showed how effective marketing is not just about selling—it’s about building trust, relationships, and a strong brand presence.

?? Key Takeaway: Whether you’re an architect, consultant, or contractor, soft skills will set you apart in a crowded job market.

4?? The Microsoft Ecosystem is More Competitive Than Ever

With more businesses moving to the cloud and Microsoft’s partner network expanding, companies need to differentiate themselves more than ever.

• Justine Beavis explained that data-driven marketing strategies are now a must-have, not an afterthought.
• Gary Vincent’s upcoming episode will explore how Microsoft Partners navigated the transition from NAV to Business Central, adapting to new cloud-based business models.
• Microsoft Partners need to invest in branding, customer engagement, and thought leadership to stay ahead.

?? Key Takeaway: Whether you’re a Microsoft Partner, consultant, or ISV, your marketing strategy matters—investing in brand positioning and customer trust will set you apart.

5?? Integration & Data Strategy Will Define the Future of Business Applications

Companies are moving away from single-platform solutions and instead embracing fully integrated business applications across CRM, ERP, AI, and analytics.

• Mary Myers demonstrated how Business Central and Power Platform integration is helping businesses automate processes and enhance decision-making.
• Dave Burrell’s upcoming episode will highlight the shift towards more strategic, end-to-end business solutions rather than siloed applications.
• Stephanie Stasey showed how AI-powered analytics are transforming industries like healthcare, providing smarter insights and automation.

?? Key Takeaway: Businesses that fail to integrate their systems and leverage data effectively will struggle to keep up with agile, data-driven competitors.

?? Final Thoughts

The biggest takeaway from the past two months

?? The Dynamics 365 and Power Platform ecosystem is evolving fast—whether it’s AI adoption, cybersecurity, the rise of contracting, or the increasing need for strong marketing strategies, professionals and businesses need to stay ahead of the curve.

If you're in Dynamics 365, Power Platform, or the wider tech community, the opportunities are bigger than ever—but so are the challenges. The key is to stay informed, keep learning, and adapt.

And, of course, we’re here to help you navigate it all through Keeping Up With Conspicuous!

?? What’s Coming Up in February?

We have an exciting month ahead, covering everything from career growth and security to Business Central’s evolution and sustainability in tech.

Here’s what to expect:

?? This Thursday, February 6 – Dave Burrell (Director of Microsoft Business Applications at Zensar Technologies & Managing Director of Infiltrate Consulting )

Dave will share insights on progressing from consultant to architect, the future of integrated business applications, and Satya Nadella’s “SaaS is dead” comment, what does it really mean for Dynamics professionals?

?? February 13 – Gary Vincent (Director at Supercell365 - Microsoft Dynamics 365, Power Platform & Copilot Experts )

We’ll explore the transition from NAV to Business Central, how Microsoft partners are adapting, and how Supercell365 has embraced a 4-day workweek to boost productivity and work-life balance.

?? February 20 – Ru Campbell (Microsoft MVP & Security Practice Lead at Threatscape )

Ru will break down key security risks in Dynamics 365 and Power Platform, sharing real-world lessons and best practices to protect your organisation from cyber threats.

?? February 27 – Nadeem Shafi (IT Director at Calisen )

A crucial discussion on sustainability, Microsoft’s role in the race to net zero, and how businesses can balance profitability with environmental responsibility. Plus, insights into diversity and inclusion in tech through Nadeem’s leadership at EmbRACE.

*All episodes will be filmed at 10:30am (GMT), LIVE on LinkedIn.

?? Join the Keeping Up With Conspicuous Community!

Two weeks ago, we launched the Keeping Up With Conspicuous Podcast LinkedIn Group, and it’s already growing into a fantastic space for Dynamics 365, Power Platform, and IT professionals to connect, share insights, and continue the conversations we start on the podcast.

If you’re enjoying the podcast, this group is the perfect place to:

• Get exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and episode sneak peeks
• Discuss key topics from each episode with fellow professionals
• Network with like-minded experts in the D365, Power Platform, and IT space
• Share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences in the industry

?? Whether you’re an experienced professional, an independent contractor, or just starting out, this community is designed to help you learn, grow, and connect.

?? Click here to join the group today and be part of the conversation!

?? Wrapping Up Our First Newsletter of 2025!

As we celebrate 25 years of Conspicuous and the launch of Season 3, we’re excited to see Keeping Up With Conspicuous continue to grow as a platform for thought leaders, industry experts, and clients in the tech space to share insights, discuss business trends, and explore key industry topics.

?? Expanding Our Reach

With a growing audience across LinkedIn and podcast platforms, the podcast is gaining momentum. Our most-viewed episode of the year, featuring Parvez Mohammed, highlights the increasing engagement and lasting impact of these conversations.

?? Want to be a guest?

We’re fully booked until May, but if you’re eager to join, we’d love to feature you on a BONUS episode!

Email Lucy Elliott (UK/EU) at [email protected] or Alex Blok ?? (US/Canada) at [email protected] to get involved.

Thank you for being part of our community—we can’t wait to bring you even more insightful conversations in 2025! ??

?? Subscribe now on YouTube & Spotify!

Kind regards,

The Keeping Up With Conspicuous Team ??