In episode 2 of Coffee & Cloud, Nick sits down with Simon Smith, CEO of Extrinsica Global, a leading managed solution provider. The two discuss the challenges and opportunities of building a successful cloud business, with a particular focus on how to succeed in the midst of a recession.

Nick and Simon co-founded Extrinsica Global nearly 20 years ago, when cloud technology was still in its infancy. Despite the challenges of convincing potential clients to switch to a cloud-based system, the business has thrived and continues to grow.

Simon talks about how the key to their success has been their commitment to providing top-notch customer service. "We really focus on delivering a great customer experience," he explained. "I think that's something that really sets us apart from our competitors."

In addition to prioritising customer service, Simon has also worked hard to stay on top of the latest trends and technologies in the cloud industry. This has allowed them to offer cutting-edge solutions to their clients and stay ahead of the competition.

When asked about the challenges of growing a cloud business during a recession, Simon acknowledged that it can be difficult. However, he emphasised the importance of staying agile and adapting to changing market conditions. "We've always been very focused on staying ahead of the curve and being able to pivot quickly," he said. "I think that's really helped us to weather any downturns in the market."

One way that Extrinsica Global has been able to stay agile is through the use of DevOps and cloud management tools like Cloud Maker. These tools allow the company to automate and streamline many of their processes, freeing up time and resources to focus on delivering value to their clients.

In the coming years, Simon is optimistic about the potential for continued growth for Extrinsica Global. "I think the cloud industry is only going to continue to expand and evolve," he said. "We're excited to be a part of that and to continue providing our clients with the best solutions possible."

Overall, the conversation between Nick and Simon offers valuable insights for businesses looking to succeed in the cloud industry, even during difficult economic times. By prioritising customer service, staying up-to-date on the latest trends, and leveraging the power of DevOps and cloud management tools, companies can position themselves for success in the cloud.