DS ezine - July 2008 - Insider

jon_air2Meet the team
 
In this edition we learn more about Jonathan Air, Managing Director. Jon is an inspirational leader and highly driven social entrepreneur.
 
What does Jonathan do?
Jon oversees the strategic growth of the business, working closely with the management team. He is very much a hands-on MD and keeps in touch with clients needs. He regularly spends time on the support desk, working with development or visiting clients. He is also a regular speaker and commentator on IT in the sector.

Life before Donor Strategy
Jon founded the company when he was 19. Initially, he developed the business alongside his corporate IT career. Jon was a software developer and training expert for blue chip companies in the city and across Europe. Jon is a devoted Christian and spent a year at Bible College in Africa. Here he also undertook missionary work. This period ignited Jon's drive to benefit charities with his IT skills.
 
What does Jonathan enjoy most about his work?
'I enjoy the variety that everyday brings. It is very rewarding to work with so many outstanding causes, as well as such an excellent team. Managing the growth of the business brings many exciting challenges, which I thrive on. I am very proud of what we are doing and where we are going.'

Jon at home
Jon and his wife Becky recently celebrated the birth of their second child Eden - a beautiful sister to Isaac. He is a drummer in a band and loves music. Becky and Jon support numerous aid projects in Kenya and visit the country regularly.

Charity support

Alastair Kendall, Training Consultant, and his wife and their dog Spud recently took on the Three Peaks of Yorkshire Challenge for Christians Against Poverty. They raised a fantastic £512.00, even though extreme weather conditions forced the event to be abandoned. They conquered two of the peaks - congratulations!
 
Account Manager, Charlotte Pike, and former Support Analyst, Lisa Parris, took part in Weston Hospicecare's sponsored Mendip Challenge walk on 1st June. Charlotte comments: 'We were both pretty stiff at work for a few days after the event; however, it was very rewarding to support our local hospice.'  Weston Hospicecare is a client of IRIS Donor Strategy.
 
Gold Day - to celebrate achieving our Gold Award for Payroll Giving, we held a Gold Day. Read more here.