Tell us a little about yourself and your work.

I’m Chris Flynn, originally from London but now based in Swansea, where I’ve built both my home and career. I’m the Managing Director of Ortharize, a business travel platform I’ve helped grow from the ground up. Ortharize uses technology to revolutionise corporate travel by simplifying booking processes, delivering insights through business intelligence, and ensuring companies can manage travel policies effectively.

I have a unique professional background, combining a law degree and (now) a software engineering degree, as well as significant experience in leadership roles across sales, operations, and product development. Before becoming MD of Ortharize, I worked as an Operations Director and gained valuable insight into team building, strategy development, and the importance of creating a strong culture.

What drives me is a passion for building new things—whether it’s a product, a team, or a business. I’m obsessed with ensuring that innovation adds real value and that every product we deliver is the best it can be. I also believe strongly in developing people, whether that’s through mentoring, training, or creating opportunities.

As a leader, I work closely with my teams and stakeholders to align on strategy and deliver measurable results. I’m also a firm believer in lifelong learning, which is why the Degree Apprenticeship programme appealed to me so much. It gave me the chance to formally develop my technical skills while continuing to build Ortharize.

How did you hear about and engage with the Degree Apprenticeship programme?

I believe I first came across the Degree Apprenticeship programme through LinkedIn or possibly a networking event. I’ve been involved in mentoring work with Swansea University for some time and am connected to several people within the institution, so the opportunity naturally came onto my radar. I was just about to go to do a Masters, so the timing was perfect!

How did you first get involved with computers and what inspired you to take this path?

I’ve always had an interest in computers. I started learning Python when I was about 10 or 11 years old, but as I grew older, my interests shifted toward more commercially focused subjects. Back then, IT GCSE was considered challenging and time-intensive, so I opted for other, ‘easier’ pathways. However, as my career developed, I found myself increasingly drawn back to the tech world. Working in the tech industry today means I need to understand technical concepts to collaborate effectively with my team and build impactful products.

How has the DA helped you in your job role, personal development and career goals?

I’ve always loved learning, and the programme was a perfect opportunity to challenge myself while working. The quality of teaching and the structured approach provided me with new perspectives and skills. Walking away with a degree was an incredibly rewarding experience.

The programme has made me more credible when working with development teams, investors, and stakeholders. I now have a deeper understanding of technical processes, which allows me to offer meaningful suggestions, whether through propositional logic or pseudo-code solutions.

I’m fortunate to be in a role I’m passionate about, but I firmly believe there’s always room for growth. The knowledge and skills gained through this degree are invaluable, and I’m confident they’ll open new opportunities and allow me to achieve even more in the future.

How do you think you will use the skills and knowledge you have gained in the future?

The skills I’ve gained will be pivotal in bridging the gap between the technical and commercial sides of business. I’ll use them to collaborate more effectively with developers, ensure better product delivery, and identify innovative solutions to challenges. These skills also give me an edge when engaging with investors, helping them see the technical and strategic direction of our company.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I’d highly recommend the Degree Apprenticeship programme to anyone considering it. Balancing work and study can be challenging, but the benefits far outweigh the effort. The relationships with other students I’ve built have also been valuable- we’re all in the same boat and pushing each other on to get to the finish line. I’ve learned a great deal and had a good laugh at points with the cohort which made it even more enjoyable. It’s a unique opportunity to gain knowledge, skills, and a formal qualification, all while continuing to grow in your career. For me, it was one of the most rewarding steps I’ve taken professionally and personally.

You can find out more about our Degree Apprenticeship on our DA webpage.