Introducing our 10 at 10 series, where we celebrate the shining stars of #theAteam who have been with us for a decade or more. Join us as we dive into their stories and celebrate the commitment and passion that have helped shape our success.
Meet Lyle McLean: A Decade of Leadership, Growth, and Passion
Lyle McLean, Director of Operations and Planning – South Africa, has been an integral part of Ascensos' success since day one. His journey is a story of entrepreneurial energy, trust, and a relentless drive to build something extraordinary.
A Journey That Began Before Day One
Lyle’s journey with Ascensos started even before the company was officially born. Having worked for eleven years at BeCogent, a business previously owned by Ascensos co-founders Dermot Jenkinson and John Devlin, Lyle knew he was stepping into something special when invited to join the Ascensos start-up team in 2013.
"The start-up feel drew me in – a blank canvas with the opportunity to join at a senior level to build something new. The trust John and the team placed in me was empowering," Lyle reflects.
Shaping the Foundation of Ascensos
Lyle began as Resourcing Manager, but as with any start-up, his role quickly expanded to include Candidate Attraction, Recruitment, Workforce Management, and even shaping the company’s culture. He was there when Ascensos was just an empty building, helping answer vital questions like, ‘What will make people want to work here?’ and ‘How will we do things differently?’
Always one to get involved, Lyle is known for his enthusiasm when it comes to team-building activities, fundraisers, and fun Friday dress-up days. Whether it’s attending a night out with colleagues or diving into a charity event, Lyle brings a sense of camaraderie and energy that helps strengthen the team spirit at Ascensos.
His fondness for connecting with colleagues outside of the day-to-day operations highlights his belief that strong relationships make for an even stronger workplace.
His ambition and dedication were rewarded when CEO John Devlin offered him the opportunity to expand his role into Operations. Today, as Director of Operations & Planning, Lyle leads teams across South Africa and other global locations.
Milestones and Proud Moments
Reflecting on standout moments, Lyle highlights 2014 as a pivotal year. Within 24 hours, Ascensos secured contracts with two major fashion retailers, accelerating its growth into a multichannel contact center powerhouse.
Another defining moment came in 2018, when the Isle of Wight operation, which Lyle had relocated to lead, won Ascensos’ first European award: 'Top Contact Centre Support Team' at the European Contact Centre and Customer Service Awards (ECCCSAs).
“Within a year of opening on the Isle of Wight, we earned our first European award at the ECCCSAs — an achievement that remains one of my proudest moments,” he shares.
Lyle is also proud of aligning Operations and Planning at Ascensos. “These are two areas often disconnected in other businesses, but here, they work hand in hand,” he explains.
A Global Leader with a Deep Commitment
After several years on the Isle of Wight, Lyle moved back to Scotland before relocating with his family to South Africa in 2023. There, he works closely with Tanya, our Chief Operating Officer, and Rudi, Group People Director, to shape the Cape Town sites and instil our unique culture globally.
The Man Behind the Role
Beyond work, Lyle is a massive comic book and movie enthusiast – a creative passion that keeps him energized and inspired.
A Legacy of Leadership and Passion
For Lyle, it’s about loyalty – to John, Dermot, and the vision they share for Ascensos. “I’ve always cared for Ascensos as if it were my own, with a deep sense of responsibility and pride in what we’re building. We weren’t trying to be the biggest, but the best,” he says.
Lyle’s journey is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit, trust, and passion that have fuelled Ascensos’ success. His story reminds us all that with dedication and belief in a shared mission, you can help shape not only a business but your own legacy.
10 at 10 series
Read more about colleagues featured in our 10 at 10 series, where we turn the spotlight on our longest-serving A-players, exploring their incredible journeys, growth, and the impact they've made at Ascensos over the past ten years:
Lyle McLean | Fiona Campbell
