Meet the Team Behind Verature

Contents

Who are we?

Verature is a product and brand owned and developed by Target Information Systems Ltd. Located in Barnsley, UK, Target consists of a group of dedicated tech enthusiasts, working tirelessly to deliver user-friendly solutions, turning complex requirements into seamless applications. One of our proudest achievements was developing the Verature product, our contractor management platform. It was born out of collaboration with a local Coca-Cola plant, addressing the need to manage high-risk visitors on-site, more efficiently.

As Verature gained popularity, expanding into diverse sectors such as Chemical, Pharmaceutical, Construction and Education, it became apparent that, regardless of the industry, a common challenge persisted: clients struggled to onboard, induct and monitor contractors effectively. These freelancers often slipped through safety nets, leaving gaps in workplace security. Transient workers moved from site to site, navigating various hazards – and incidents were alarmingly frequent. Yet, their safety training remained inconsistent, and compliance records scattered like digital confetti.

We realized our skills could profoundly impact safety, reduce accidents and safeguard the workplace. Verature envisioned a system that centralised contractor data, tracked certifications and flagged risks. Since then we have progressively integrated more safety features into our software, and Verature has evolved into a digital sentinel for workplace safety.

Our vital mission: to transform workplaces into safer, healthier environments.

Why did we start with contractor management? The statistics revealed that contractors are the group most affected by workplace accidents. Contractors often work in high-risk areas and activities—construction sites, factories, confined spaces and at heights. Their safety practices directly impact everyone around them. By prioritising contractors, Verature addresses a critical gap.

The Ripple Effect: When contractors follow best practices, they influence the entire ecosystem. Verature thus aims to create a safety culture that permeates every corner of the workplace and supply chain.

Moving towards a future where every workplace is a model of safety and wellbeing.

Along with a growing community of users, Verature is helping to create safer workplaces, one contractor at a time.

The Verature Story So Far…

1990:

Phil Atkinson begins his journey in engineering programming.

1998:

Phil starts working with Internet technologies, recognising their potential for businesses.

Meanwhile, in Huddersfield UK,  Daryl Greensill earns his degree in Computer Science.

1999

Daryl’s leads a career developing internet-based software, at his chosen company. Here he meets Phil, and they enjoy a successful working partnership, tackling lots of large-scale internet application projects for blue-chip companies.

2008:

Daryl has gained valuable experience in internet software development and becomes a Senior Developer after eight years.

Phil delves into mainstream computer programming and technical consultancy.

2010:

Phil & Daryl establish Target Information Systems Limited, Phil as Managing Director and Daryl as Technical Director.

2010:

Coca Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) contacts Target for a new project to gain control of contracts at Wakefield Operations. They build and implement the Accord contract management system. CCEP Wakefield successfully plan, save and add value using Accord’s automation, alerts and business intelligence tools.

2017:

Seven years later, CCEP Wakefield and Target launch digital tools for contractor compliance and safety. One rainy day in Yorkshire, January 17th: Phil and Daryl unveil Verature Contractor Management System supported by a kickass new mission: safer workplaces.

Present Day:

Phil and Daryl’s vision and expertise in technology drives innovation and ensures Target remains at the forefront of cloud-based technology solutions transforming workplaces into safer, healthier environments. They continue to grow their small team in Daryl’s hometown of Barnsley. Phil leading the commercial, while Daryl guides our technical teams, delivering cutting-edge safety solutions and best-in-class customer service to our amazing clients.

Target Values…

Clarity, Credibility, Consistency, Community, and a Competitive Approach.

We prioritise clarity by being transparent about our prices, identity and capabilities.

Our credibility is demonstrated through our impressive client base and successful projects with renowned brands.

Consistency is important to us, ensuring that our words, deliveries and available information are always aligned.

As a community, we value family and consider our clients an integral part of it.

Lastly, we are committed to a competitive approach, always aiming to deliver the best results in the most cost-effective ways for our clients.

---

 

Target Passions…

Charity, Sustainability, Community and Growth

We annually donate to local charities and food banks, encourage team members to fundraise and grant an extra day of leave for staff’s charitable endeavours.

Sustainability  is a priority, with 100% renewable-powered software and eco-friendly products. Our staff benefit from EV car salary sacrifice schemes, aligning with our 0% carbon emissions goal by 2025.

Growth: is paramount. We foster professional development, assisting our team in obtaining certifications, MBA’s and degrees.

Community engagement is central to us from our Barnsley, South Yorkshire base. We offer opportunities to local students and youth, aiding their tech careers, with 50% of our Developers starting as apprentices.

---

 

Phil Atkinson

Managing Director

Superhero: driving force for the company by day, inspirational ‘work dad’ by night. Rooted in family & Church life, Phil brings a unique perspective to problem-solving. Clients appreciate his personalised approach, while colleagues admire his ability to foster a collaborative work environment.

Daryl Greensill

Technical Director

Daryl brings dry humour, logical thinking & vast experience to the team. He excels in problem-solving, by identifying root causes & surpassing user expectations. Daryl’s proudest achievement is the success of our Barnsley team, delivering outstanding support to amazing clients.

Robert Ellam

Production Director

Rob has made invaluable contributions to the team over the past decade, excelling in high-profile, technically challenging projects, & providing dedicated guidance and mentoring to junior team members. He draws inspiration from his grandfather’s wisdom: ‘Life is a mountain to climb, not a beach to walk on’.

April Waddington

Sales and Marketing Director

April, inspired by Elon Musk, brings a trailblazing mindset to her work at Target. A dedicated ‘grafter’, she relishes working with clients eager for innovative solutions. With her commitment to living authentically & personal growth, April’s perspective is both unique & invaluable to the Target team.

Kerry Brady

Finance Manager

Kerry has been an integral part of the Target family since 2010. A dedicated mum of triplets, Kerry embodies resilience, adaptability & excellent multitasking skills. With her extensive experience & expertise in financial management, Kerry ensures the company stays on track.

Paula Casterton

Office Manager

With many strings to her bow, Paula is a solution-oriented & skilled ISO Auditer & a Mental Health First Aider.  Her nurturing spirit, exceptional problem-solving skills & ability to create a harmonious work atmosphere make her an indispensable part of the Target family.

James Cole

Account Manager

Client whisperer, James, brings his down to earth Yorkshire humour & work ethic (not unlike Jane Mcdonald, he would say!) with years of industry knowledge to the table. His experience in software consultancy & proactive nature makes him a trusted partner in delivering exceptional service & building lasting client relationships.

Josh Henighan

Senior Software Developer

Josh has been a member of the Target team since 2016, bringing a unique perspective to problem-solving. Inspired by his love for kickboxing, he approaches challenges with discipline & precision. His ability to see the bigger picture & explore multiple solutions make him an asset to the team.

Will Roy

Software Developer

Will has extensive experience here at Target. He has a deep-rooted love for game development & puzzle-solving, particularly with the Rubik’s cube, which has strongly influenced his career in software development & makes him a valuable asset in our team.

Ellie Fowkes

Sales and Marketing Assistant

For Ellie, success is giving her all & continuous learning. She thrives on the hybrid flexibility & creative freedom in her role. Her dream team? The Kardashian/Jenner, empire-building women. Guided by “Well-behaved women seldom make history,” she’d advise her younger self to worry less about others’ opinions.

James Astell

Graduate Software Developer

James is our newest addition with a contagious enthusiasm for coding. Fuelled by his lifelong fascination with space & the unknown, he is passionate about innovation & pushing boundaries. James is thrilled to be part of a team that values creativity, growth & a commitment to excellence.

Want to learn more about us? Get in touch!