Alumni blog - Gavin John

When Gavin John arrived at Coventry University in 1989 to study Computer Science, the discipline itself was still emerging. Home computers were only just becoming part of everyday life, and few universities were leading the way in computing education. Coventry University was one of them.

“I chose Coventry University because it was pioneering Computer Science at the time,” Gavin recalls. “I still remember arriving from South London with my parents, a tearful mum and a very proud dad, ready to start something completely new.”

Learning far beyond the classroom

For Gavin, university was about much more than coding and coursework. Living independently in university-owned halls of residence, forming lifelong friendships with Nitesh Thakrar and Rob Forrester, who he still catches up and travels with frequently and learning how to manage responsibility all became defining parts of the experience.

“The biggest lessons weren’t just academic,” he says. “They were about becoming organised, diligent, and learning how to be a good friend and citizen.”

One influence that stayed with him was his final-year tutor, David Hamer. “He was an exemplar of professionalism and integrity. I learned far more than Computer Science from him.” Gavin graduated in November 1993 from a four-year Computer Science sandwich degree, which included a third-year placement with British Telecom in Leicester, an experience that gave him early exposure to professional working life and helped build long-term confidence.

A global career shaped over time

That confidence allowed Gavin to take an unconventional path after graduation. Rather than moving straight into a permanent role, he spent two years travelling the world, including a formative year in Australia.

“Having a degree gave me the reassurance that work would be there when I was ready,” he explains.

After returning to the UK to work at Legal & General, Gavin eventually made the move to Melbourne, where he secured roles in IT consultancies before settling there permanently in 1999. In 2015, he founded his own IT consultancy, Simple Digital, giving him the flexibility to balance work with his growing creative ambitions.

Where technology meets storytelling

Alongside his IT career, Gavin developed a deep passion for photography, particularly in remote and extreme landscapes. That passion led to unexpected opportunities, including being approached by a UK publisher after his work featured in Time Out.

His latest book, Australia’s Historic Pubs, explores the country’s social and architectural history through photography and storytelling. Several further titles are already in progress, including a 2026 release focusing on Australia’s classic theatres and cinemas.

“The organisational skills and discipline I developed at Coventry University allow me to run an IT business while travelling the country on photography projects,” Gavin says. “Those foundations still support everything I do.”

Advice for today’s students

Gavin’s advice to current students and graduates is simple and deeply human: 

“Be kind. Be generous. Treat everyone as equals. Life is short, so prioritise family, friends, fun and experiences. Don’t wait for weekends or special occasions. Every day is an opportunity.”

Reflecting on his journey, Gavin hopes his story encourages others to reconnect.

“Coventry University delivers far above its weight. With the University embracing its alumni, there’s no better time to be part of that story again.”