Doug Taylor (Projectworks)

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Overview

Doug Taylor is a prominent New Zealand entrepreneur, known for his significant contributions in the software industry. He is a co-founder of Projectworks, a professional services automation software company. Taylor, along with his colleagues Julian Clarke and Matthew Hayter, established Projectworks, which has expanded globally. The company provides tools to enhance efficiency and profitability for professional services firms. Taylor's role as Chief Operating Officer at Projectworks highlights his expertise in business operations and technology solutions.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Doug Taylor and Projectworks have made noteworthy strides:

  • October 2024: Projectworks raised USD $5 million (NZD $8.2 million) in a Series A funding round, elevating its valuation to NZD $100 million. The funding round, led by Bridgewest Group, is aimed at expanding Projectworks' reach, especially in North America, and involves building a development team in Silicon Valley.
  • March 2024: Mark Orttung was appointed as CEO of Projectworks. Orttung's leadership is expected to foster growth, leveraging his extensive experience in scaling businesses like Bill.com and Nexient.
  • 2023: Projectworks doubled its revenue, a significant milestone attributed to its robust software solutions serving over 500 consultancies globally. Leadership restructuring also saw Taylor focus on operational excellence, complementing Orttung's strategic direction.
  • 2023: Doug Taylor played a crucial role in evolving Projectworks from its initial software iteration into a comprehensive platform used in 53 countries, responding to increasing demands in the consulting sector.

Personal Information

AttributeInformation
Full NameDoug Taylor
BornNot publicly disclosed
NationalityNew Zealander
OccupationEntrepreneur, COO
Known ForCo-founding Projectworks
EducationBSc in Computer Science

Early Life and Education

Doug Taylor grew up in New Zealand, where he developed a keen interest in technology from an early age. His passion for computing led him to pursue a degree in Computer Science at Victoria University of Wellington. During his academic years, Taylor was involved in various technology projects, which honed his skills in software development and business strategy. His education laid the groundwork for a career characterized by innovation and entrepreneurship.

Career and Notable Achievements

Doug Taylor's career is marked by a series of successful ventures in the tech industry:

  1. Early Career: Taylor began his career as a software developer and quickly moved into leadership roles. He worked at Provoke Solutions, where he initiated the creation of a time-tracking software.
  2. Projectworks: In 2015, Taylor co-founded Projectworks. The venture quickly grew from a startup to a notable software provider, catering to mid-market consultancies worldwide.
  3. Awards and Recognition:
    • Projectworks was ranked 557th on the Inc. Magazine 5000 list, reflecting its rapid growth and impact.
    • In 2024, Projectworks achieved significant milestone with a Series A funding round, underscoring its market potential and trust with investors.

Current Work and Impact

As of 2024, Doug Taylor serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Projectworks, where he focuses on optimizing operations and expanding the company's influence in new markets. His work has been instrumental in increasing the company's profitability and global footprint. Projectworks is recognized as a leading provider of professional services automation software, contributing significantly to the efficiency of service firms. Taylor's influence in the tech landscape continues to grow, with Projectworks poised for further expansion.

Conclusion

Doug Taylor is a dynamic entrepreneur whose contributions to the tech industry, particularly through Projectworks, have revolutionized business management solutions for professional service firms. His strategic vision and operational expertise have been key to Projectworks' success and significant growth on the global stage. As the company continues to expand, especially in the U.S., Taylor's role in driving innovation and excellence solidifies his position as a leading figure in the tech industry. His ongoing commitment to enhancing operational efficiencies promises a lasting impact on the industry, shaping the future of professional services automation.