Currys Business has developed a comprehensive response to the supply chain requirements of partners wanting to adopt a complete IT solution model, according to Director Dean Kramer.
Currys Business’ complete IT solution model provides an interconnected framework that specifically addresses all markets with clarity and precision, noted Kramer, who also believes that the company provides a striking example of a partner-driven approach. “We have the opportunity to be recognised further by partners as a complete IT solutions provider for businesses, an organisation already highly experienced in the subscription model for contracts and relationships,” he stated. “We are now building greater awareness and understanding of our proposition and capabilities, and see significant headroom for partners to grow within the SME market.”
There is comfort to be had from the backing of a technology giant like Currys Business, which is part of Currys, Europe’s household name electrical and telecommunications retailer and service provider. Kramer joined the firm in 2004 and has held many commercial buying, marketing and category management roles. For a spell he was responsible for the travel business and in November last year took charge of the B2B operation, including partner strategy.
We have an opportunity to be more recognised by partners as a complete IT solutions provider for businesses, an organisation already highly experienced in the subscription model for contracts and relationships
The channel has long been a hot topic and priority for Kramer who aims to realise ‘huge growth’ opportunities for partners who recognise the increasing need to think more broadly about the products and services they provide. “The Currys Business hardware range includes products from Apple, HP, Samsung and many other global names,” explained Kramer. “We are well positioned to help partners widen their scope by leveraging our brand and relationships.”
Currys Business has adopted a number of key practices to support partners’ growth journey, underpinned by 30 years experience and a long-standing reputation for providing support. “We are experienced and ready to support partners with all types of customer bases all from one account,” stated Kramer. “We’re developing new propositions – particularly our range of value added services and payment options – and have exciting plans across the board in the months ahead.”
Kramer noted that Currys Business does not take a one-size-fits-all approach to partner relationships. But the on-boarding process is ‘quick and efficient’ via the portal where partners can place orders the minute their account is open. “A dedicated account manager is allocated from the outset and we customise the account management to align with the sectors each partner specialises in,” added Kramer. “We have knowledge of many markets.”
A key market is the mobile space and Kramer is currently seeing great interest in multiple network choice. “We have several hundred partners who we help to serve the mobile airtime, business hardware and energy markets,” stated Kramer. “Our channel strategy is based on encouraging partners to appreciate the benefits that they can gain from having one account with Currys Business covering all these markets with a dedicated account manager and support. That also includes access to a wide choice of mobile operators and major business hardware brands. Our reputation and strong relationships with leading mobile airtime providers is reflected in the fact that we were chosen as a launch partner by 3.”
Kramer advances an uncomplicated view of the big opportunities he sees for partners who offer a complete IT solution package and service to customers. He is equally clear eyed about the development and growth of AI, particularly its potential for future proofing, helping businesses bolster productivity and efficiency, and work more easily across borders. “Virtual Reality also presents increasingly compelling use cases for businesses, helping them create unique content to showcase experiences that are difficult to achieve remotely,” he added.
“The new generation of AI powered devices will give customers and businesses new reasons to upgrade their technology to ensure they are maximising productivity and efficiency, and we aim to play a significant role in helping them do that.”
Just a minute with Dean Kramer...
Role models:
I’ve worked for (and with) some fantastic people and always try to take the best aspect from each to help me become a better person and leader.
Tell us something about yourself we don’t know:
I’m a massive Watford supporter, and have a season ticket with my son and dad.
If you weren’t in ICT what would you be doing?
I wanted to be a sportswear designer when I was young and would have a spin at that.
Best advice you have been given:
To diversify my experience.
Three ideal dinner guests:
Ricky Gervais for jokes; Muhammed Ali as I’m a boxing fan and he was the most charismatic; and Gordon Ramsey to critique how awful my food is.
Your main strength and what could you work on?
I’m good at relating to people from different backgrounds and at different levels in the business, and I can simplify complex issues – but I need to work on my lack of patience when I see an opportunity.
What do you fear most?
Snakes
Industry bugbear:
Jargon and acronyms! We all have a role to play in making it easier to understand technology and connectivity.
The biggest risk you have taken:
Stepping out of my comfort zone to take on projects has contributed to me thinking in a more rounded way about how we serve customers and bring propositions to market.
Your favourite comedians or comediennes:
Ricky Gervais and Kevin Bridges.
What talent do you wish you had?
To read and play music.
Top tip for resellers:
Know your customer.