Dote appoints new managing director

Nursery tech firm Dote, based in Stonehaven, has appointed Denise Namakando as managing director of the UK & Ireland as it prepares for international growth and its latest funding round.

Denise, a former fractional chief marketing officer at Dote, has led its go-to-market strategy, brand positioning and commercial proposition. 

Her experience includes roles at Dyson, Barbie, Unilever and US startup Owlet Baby Care.

She will work alongside founder Stephen Senior to support fundraising, oversee the firm’s consumer launch in September and drive expansion into the US and Europe.

Denise said: “Dote was founded with a simple mission: to reduce the stressors of modern-day parenting and create more joy for parents by disrupting the nursery category with innovative design and leading technology. 

“As both a parent and a sector specialist, this is a mission I share wholeheartedly so I am delighted to be taking on the role of managing director UK & Ireland at such a crucial time in our growth journey.

“We are already pushing the boundaries in reimagining the parenting experience and the positive feedback we continue to receive from partners, investors and parents is testament to the huge potential in Dote and its ability to transform the sector.”

Dote’s AI-powered product ecosystem includes a smart baby monitor, app and travel system designed to provide real-time insights on a baby’s comfort and development.

Denise’s appointment is part of a trio of senior hires in Q1, alongside Avril Murphy as chief operating officer and Nova Chow as technical product manager, as the firm accelerates its growth plans.

Stephen Senior, founder and chief executive at Dote, added: “2025 is a pivotal year for the brand as we gear up for a range of major milestones, including our latest funding round, our consumer launch and our expansion into international territories. 

“As such, it’s critical we have a team that can drive the vision as well as deliver our ambitious technical roadmap. 

“Appointing Denise is a significant step for Dote, as we embark on a crucial stage in our journey of acceleration, expansion and disruption.”

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