As an ex-lecturer at the University of Leeds and a communications specialist within the MoD, Adam is a consistent innovator and technologist with a strong cyber security background. In 1998, he created telecommunications platform company, aql, identifying a need for software systems to be able to communicate with customers seamlessly.
His focus is on building scalable, automated systems, with aql now hosting many tens of millions of phone numbers and providing messaging and communication services to leading banks, retail, logistics, healthcare and education. He’s created enabling services which are used by some of San Francisco’s biggest tech success stories.
Over the past decade, he has also built and deployed the main datacentres in the region and created the main internet exchange for the North of the UK, putting the region on the global “internet map” and allowing the region to become digitally resilient, providing the main hub for Northern global connectivity.
He’s a patron, trustee and governor – focusing on supporting organisations which involving inspiring the next generation to be passionate about science and technology.
Adam is a strong advocate of the Northern Powerhouse and the opportunities it creates through collaboration and communication. Adam has hosted and supported key events in the evolution of the Northern Powerhouse at aql’s restored Grade II listed historic city centre venue. He’s a tireless connector and collaborator.
His support also extends to investments – an active angel investor with a portfolio spanning healthcare, education, collaboration tools, and technology for social change. He also founded the not-for-profit investment platform NorthInvest which drives co-investment in startups across the North of the UK.
