Retirement

Hello LinkedIn readers, today I’m excited and delighted to announce my up-coming retirement.

The young man pictured in this photo is actually me on my first day at work in Yorkshire, England back in 1978. These were the days of mainframes, paper tapes and punch cards. What does a 42 year technology career, spread across 49 countries, do to a person? Well, in 2020, I certainly look older and wiser! I have enjoyed my time and career working within the technology field and have experienced some amazing advancements. I’ve been fortunate to work with, and lead, some incredible teams and travel the world while always remaining curious and optimistic about the technology advancements I’ve seen. I knew one day that we would all carry mini computers around with us but the Cloud, AI, Robotics and Quantum were and are, beyond my wildest dreams. A month ago, I informed my boss, the CEO of Lifeco, of my intention and decision to retire. After our recent board meetings we have now today announced formally across our company that I will be retiring at the End of Q1, 2021.

I will of course still be around to assist with any transition activities. Earlier this year, I was inducted into the CIO Hall of Fame - This was an incredible honor and a nice cap stone upon my career. I’ve always been proud to say that I was a technologist and a Global CIO. A big thank you to all of my work colleagues whom I’ve worked with over the years around the globe, without you my journey would not have been possible or as enjoyable. A big thank you to my wife, whom has supported me for the past 33 years. In retirement, I’m looking forward to tinkering around at home, writing my 11th novel, travelling when we can, and spending more time with my family. I am keenly interested in keeping my connection to this fascinating technology industry through extending my board work as an independent director. The first Quarter of 2021 will come quickly, but looking back on my career, I can have no regrets. I’d love to whisper in the ear of that naive young man pictured here, but I’d just tell him that an incredible journey lies ahead. They always say “try to go out on top” and frankly I can’t top this year as the pandemic has thrust our profession into the spotlight forcing every company to accelerate the adoption of technology as we moved people to safely working from home. I’m looking forward to retirement with a sense of excitement and optimism but warmly reflect on an incredible journey.

Stay safe everyone.

Kind regards,

Phil Armstrong

EVP & Global CIO.