We’re pleased to introduce our latest Forward Thinker, Neil Howdle, Software Support at Forward Solutions, who is based at the Nottingham headquarters.
Neil is the newest member to join the Forward Solutions’ support desk, having previously worked in the customer service industry as gaining a good amount of experience in the freight sector.
His began his career as Customer Service Representative at a major retailer, giving him hands-on experience resolving issues in a timely and efficient manner.
He then became a Premier Customer Service Advisor for DHL, where his passion for IT and software grew. Neil worked with DHL’s internal software, helping clients overcome any problems or issues that caused downtime.
Two years after being promoted to Senior Customer Service Adviser at DHL, in 2022, Neil joined the Forward Solutions team.
As a member of the software support team, Neil helps customers fully maximise Forward Solutions’ software. He and the team help hundreds of users get to grips with the different modules which make up Forward Office, whether that be helping users work more efficiently with import and export customs management on Forward Clear, or using Forward Core to manage shipments precisely from quote to invoice.
Neil Howdle said:
“As the newest member of the support team, I’m constantly learning from everyone around me every day, which is great as there is a real sense that everyone here wants each other to do a great job. The knowledge the wider team have is absolutely incredible.
“Experience is key for this industry and having worked in IT and customer service before, I feel I have the confidence to do my job to the high standard Forward Solutions always provide, and I’m thankful that I’m trusted to deliver my work to this degree.
“I really enjoy speaking with our customers, having a dedicated team to help answer queries means we get to know them on a one-to-one level, they know us, we know them, and it makes solving issues a lot more fluid.”
Richard Litchfield, Managing Director of Forward Solutions added: “Neil has been a great asset to the team and has really shown what he is capable of since joining the team. He brings a wealth of experience in both IT and customer service, and is always eager to resolve our customer’s concerns.
“One thing about Neil, which is admirable, is his passion to develop and learn, treating every day like a school day, and using what he learns to further support and provide for both the business and our customers.”
“With an industry as ever-changing as technology, it’s important to have the right mindset and understanding of our software, to allow for creative and intuitive ways to solve challenges that come our way.”
In his spare time, Neil likes to watch and, when he can, play football, supporting Nottingham Forest and has been a season ticket holder for over 20 years. He also enjoys cycling and took part in the London to Brighton Off-Road bike ride where he cycled for 72 miles, raising £3,000 for the British Heart Foundation in memory of his Nan.
