AI communications firm SimplyAI appoints chairman

Leeds-based AI communications platform SimplyAI has appointed telecom industry veteran Ian Fishwick as chairman as the business scales its UK and international growth plans.

Ian brings more than 30 years’ experience across the telecoms and ICT sectors and is best known as founder of AdEPT Technology Group, which he grew into a £75 million revenue business before its sale in 2023.

During his career, he has completed 43 acquisitions and held senior leadership roles at companies including Telewest Communications and Airband.

At SimplyAI, Ian will support governance, investment strategy and partner development as the company expands its AI-enabled communications platform through telecom and managed service provider channels.

Ian said: “Telecom has gone through several major infrastructure transitions over the past 30 years. 

“We are now entering another one as AI becomes embedded into everyday business  communications. 

“SimplyAI is well positioned to help telecom service providers, MSPs and their customers adopt these capabilities in a practical and scalable way. 

“I’m looking forward to supporting the company as chairman during this next stage of growth.”

Alex Deighton, chief executive of SimplyAI, added: “Ian has played a leadership role across several defining phases of telecom infrastructure development in the UK.

“Having recently helped guide Airband through a major investment phase, his decision to join SimplyAI reflects the scale of the opportunity ahead as AI becomes part of the core communications stack delivered through the telecom channel.

“SimplyAI is building what we believe will become the AI-first communications layer for  service providers and their customers. 

“Ian’s experience across public markets, acquisitions and telecom platform growth will be invaluable as we scale internationally and prepare for our next investment phase.”

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