Ian Foote
Chair
About Me
I arrived in Melbourne from Auckland in the 1970’s and Bayside Melbourne is now home. Alongside my wife of 50 years, Dianne (never has a truer word been said that behind every successful man, is a strong woman), we’ve brought up our 3 now adult children who all live in Melbourne. I began my working life with a two-year stint in the advertising industry and when unable to obtain an advertising job on arrival in Melbourne (on Di’s advice who wisely suggested that ‘Computers are the way of the future’) I undertook a 2 week ‘Introduction to Electronic Data Processing’ course which enabled me to land a Trainee Computer Operator’s job. This started my career which evolved into Software development, Analysis, Project Management with various roles in Sales & Marketing and as CTO in many and varied industries including financial services, telecommunications, and utilities giving me the experience to establish my first Professional Services business in the late 80’s – PTP being the third. I have been fortunate in being able to surround myself with people smarter than me or whose strengths cover my weaknesses to help enable these businesses to thrive. My philosophy is technology is not an end in itself but an enabler to provide businesses and people with the tools to grow.
My Role at PTP
Since selling Ajilon in 2000, I have been an investor and director in various technology, sports, digital media, property, entertainment, and philanthropic ventures, including The Ponting Foundation. At PTP, I act as a conduit between the Investors and the Executive Team. As we are a small but growing company, I also provide mentorship to the executive group and leverage my experience as a strategist and networker to grow and develop opportunities.
My perfect day away from the office
Sport has always played an important part in my life and a perfect day would blend both our own and those of our children and 6 (soon to be 7) grandchildren together with socialising with family and friends.
The day would include gym sessions, morning coffee, a round of golf at Royal Melbourne and time with grandchildren watching their chosen sport - basketball, footy, netball or Taekwondo – as they develop their skills and competitive nature with the fun of playing in teams with their mates.
Lunchtime would involve the whole family coming together to eat, enjoy and relax watching The Mighty Blues. With busy lives and schedules spending time together and being a Pa is really special.
Evenings means more socialising with Di and friends at a special spot close to home putting the world to rights and probably debating politics; economics; the state of the nation - and a walk home soaking up the last few hours of what has been a perfect day.
As I have grown older (and hopefully wiser), I’m acutely aware that I have many perfect days where I get to play golf, enjoy my grandchildren and travel around Australia and beyond. However, I never take for granted the health and happiness of my family and financial freedom and passion that has allowed me to continue to invest in various business opportunities - including PTP – watching them flourish and providing opportunities for staff to share in the growth.