Literal Labs appoints non-executive chairman

Newcastle-based AI company Literal Labs has appointed Jim Darragh as non-executive chairman as it enters a new phase of growth.

Jim brings more than 30 years’ experience in the European B2B software sector, having served as chief executive of five international software businesses including Zeus Technology, Abiquo, Ipanema Technologies, CMO Group and TotalMobile.

During his career, he led each of the companies to exit, creating around £1.3 billion in enterprise value. 

Most recently, as chief executive of TotalMobile, he increased revenues by more than 500 per cent over seven years and oversaw seven acquisitions.

Since stepping down from the role in 2023, he has supported businesses as a board adviser and will now help guide Literal Labs as it scales its logic-based AI technology.

Jim said: “I’m incredibly excited about Literal Labs. 

“The opportunity for these unique AI models is significant: as AI continues to move closer to where data is generated, the demand for efficient, high-performance algorithms is only going to grow. 

“Noel and the team have built something with real potential, and I look forward to working with them as they scale.”

Noel Hurley, chief executive of Literal Labs, added: “Jim is exactly the kind of person we wanted around the table at this stage of our journey. 

“His track record of scaling international software businesses is exceptional, with more than a billion pounds of value created, and a genuine playbook for building teams that execute at pace. 

“Having Jim’s experience and perspective as we grow is a real asset for Literal Labs.”

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