Paragon Group Appoints Stephen Lester to New Group Chief Technology Officer Role

Paragon group announces that it has appointed Stephen Lester to the newly created role of Group Chief Technology Officer, after a period of rapid expansion for the business. 

Formerly CTO for Paragon’s UK, Ireland and Luxembourg region, Lester’s role will shift from building the technology foundations that have supported the region’s key business lines, to setting a strategy that consolidates investment and innovation in technology across Paragon’s global footprint. Crucial to his role will be refining the frameworks and governance required by the business to support the needs of its diverse set of customers, which span highly regulated industries and the world’s best-known consumer brands. 

“Stephen’s new role puts him at the heart of Paragon Group's strategic success. Tech is critical to our business ambitions,” said Clem Garvey, COO of Paragon Group. “His understanding of the businesses and the complex and differing needs of our customer base, as well as his track record innovating with our customers to deliver transformation and growth, puts him in the perfect position to create the tech platform we need to support the next phase of Paragon’s journey.”

Over the past three years, Stephen, as regional CTO, has overseen the building of technology foundations that have supported Paragon Group’s rapid expansion, notably through numerous acquisitions. Through his work in supporting these acquisitions, he has led the unification of technology platforms and implemented systems to integrate diverse business lines - delivering smarter, more efficient operations. Now, as Group CTO, he will take this further, developing smart AI strategies that will utilise data-driven innovation to accelerate transformation, enhance customer engagement and drive efficiency and growth for Paragon’s clients.

Stephen’s appointment comes as Paragon takes its next steps in evolving for long-term success, implementing new processes and dedicated growth teams to create stronger, globally connected business lines.

“This is an exciting time for Paragon, and I’m proud to have the opportunity to step into the role of Group Chief Technology Officer,” comments Stephen Lester. “Technology is at the heart of everything we do, powering our operations and allowing us to innovate and deliver exciting solutions that allow our clients to push the capabilities of what exceptional customer experiences look like. My focus will be on ensuring every part of the business, across our outsourced and marketing services divisions, has the platforms, systems, and innovative solutions needed to perform at its best. That’s how we will deliver more for our clients, creating smarter solutions and innovating together to deliver lasting value.”