Summed Up is a podcast providing advice, insights and practical perspectives for leaders and decision‑makers.
Each episode explores real‑world challenges and opportunities facing mid‑market businesses – from leadership and culture to strategy and decision‑making. Lived experiences and honest conversations are told by PKF Smith Cooper experts, joined by clients, contacts and industry voices. Whether you’re looking to spark new ideas, learn from those who have done it or understand what’s coming next in the business landscape, this is the place to start. If you’d like to speak to one of our experts about a topic covered in one of our episodes, or more generally about your business, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple PodcastsLatest episode: How Technology and AI Can Drive Better Business Performance
AI may dominate the headlines, but successful technology investment isn’t about chasing the latest trend. It’s about choosing the right tools, implementing them effectively and ensuring your people, processes and governance keep pace.
In this episode of Summed Up podcast, we sat down with Paul Howard, Managing Director of PKF Infuse, and Blake Fine, Managing Director of Servtron Group, to explore how technology is shaping business performance, from the challenges of implementation to the opportunities created by emerging technologies and AI.
Timings
[00:00:00] Introductions and background
[00:02:13] The moment businesses realise they need better technology
[00:05:24] Choosing the right technology
[00:07:23] Beyond the AI hype
[00:10:58] Why technology projects fail
[00:14:54] Getting teams to embrace change
[00:17:41] Measuring technology return on investment
[00:21:09] The future of technology and AI in business
[00:25:23] Closing reflections and key takeaways
Paul and Blake discuss the challenges that often come with implementing new systems, including securing employee buy-in, managing costs and maintaining strong governance, while cutting through some of the hype surrounding AI. Throughout, they offer practical insights on choosing the right solutions, avoiding common pitfalls and creating a technology strategy that delivers real value. Whether you’re considering a new software investment or looking to make better use of the tools you already have, this conversation offers valuable advice for business leaders looking to grow with confidence.
About our guest speakers
Paul Howard – Managing Director of PKF Infuse – Paul has over 20 years of experience helping businesses use technology to improve efficiency, strengthen security and support growth. Having guided organisations through major shifts from the rise of email and the internet to today’s AI-driven tools, Paul works with businesses to ensure technology delivers real value while balancing governance, risk and compliance.
Blake Fine – Managing Director of Servtron – Blake has spent the last decade building businesses across the services sector, starting at 17 when he co-founded an events catering company. Since then he’s learned the realities of building companies from the ground up, and Servtron Group is the next chapter in that journey. He leads M&A, operations and group strategy, and enjoys working closely with the teams across the platform to tackle the practical challenges of running and growing acquisitive businesses.
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Catch up on previous episodes
Listen back to conversations with business leaders, industry experts and our specialists.
Episode 1: Women Leading the Way – Building Influence, Culture and Career Growth
In the first episode of the Summed Up podcast, Claire Spencer and Alice Rees share their experiences of building successful careers in traditionally male-dominated professions. From imposter syndrome to leadership and career progression, they offer practical insights, honest reflections and advice for professionals looking to grow their confidence and make an impact.
Listen to the full conversation on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.