ICTTM Shareholder – Bernard Harper

Bernard Harper is the Managing Director of NetReturn Consulting which specialises in helping organisations achieve operational efficiencies and deliver better online experiences for their customers.

In the 18 years Bernard has run NetReturn Consulting, he has designed and refined the company’s approach to solving problems for clients, consistently delivering cost effective solutions to meet the business need.

Often, but not always, solutions involve a combination of new and old technology working together. In addition, by laying down adaptable technology and processes in the solutions he designs, there is inbuilt potential to accommodate future change as a client’s business grows and changes.

Technology and process improvement do not exist in a vacuum. Under Bernard’s stewardship, NetReturn Consulting begins every engagement by gaining a thorough understanding of the client’s business and the problem they are trying to solve. Getting to the best result involves also looking at the external landscape and the longer-term ambition of a business. In stark contrast to many competitors, a technology agnostic approach is taken to design and implementation.

A career built on firm foundations

Bernard began his career as a systems analyst with British Telecom, moving on to senior project management roles in several large technology providers including Digital Equipment Corp (DEC) and Siemens. His extensive experience spans government, telecommunications, banking, financial services, defence, healthcare, and not-for-profit.

These years formed a firm foundation in consistent, cost-effective delivery, technology neutrality, and an unwavering commitment to managing relationships.

Since acquiring NetReturn Consulting in 2005, Bernard has been instrumental in successfully executing major projects, partnering with organisations like the UN, ASEAN, State and Federal Governments as well as blue chip and medium sized companies embarking on their next phase of growth.

Bernard envisions a future where cutting-edge technologies, like AI, will drive process automation, freeing professionals to focus on higher-order activities. While acknowledging the evolution these new technologies will bring, Bernard believes in the enduring significance of effective analysis and design principles.

For aspiring professionals, Bernard imparts the wisdom of mastering foundational principles and staying true to one’s core values. He draws inspiration from iconic business leaders like Lee Iacocca and Sir John Harvey-Jones, who have left an indelible mark on the world of business.

Beyond his professional commitments, Bernard enjoys sailing on Sydney’s beautiful harbour, indulges his passion for modern jazz, and pursues a life-long interest in macroeconomics.