The co-founder of Cornwall-based internet provider Wildanet has been appointed chief executive of a national digital infrastructure organisation.
In his new role as boss of the Independent Networks Cooperative Association (INCA), Paddy Paddison will engage with government on the future development of the UK’s telecoms infrastructure.
He succeeds INCA founder Malcolm Corbett, who will transition into an advisory role.
“As chief executive my priority will be to amplify our members’ voices in critical discussions around regulation, infrastructure, and funding,” said Mr Paddison. “I’m committed to engaging directly with our members, as well as with government, devolved governments and regional authorities, to ensure the crucial role of [alternative network providers] in building the UK’s digital future is fully recognised and supported.”
Mr Corbett led the organisation to become the largest altnet trade body in the UK since its launch in 2009 and will support Mr Paddison on a consultancy basis through to the end of the year.
“Founding and leading INCA has been one of the proudest achievements of my career,” said Mr Corbett. “We have helped the altnet sector grow from a visionary, rebel group to collectively matching Openreach in building the full fibre networks of the future. Fifteen years is a long time to lead an organisation, so I am happy to seek new opportunities as Paddy leads the team taking INCA into its next phase.”
Mr Paddison will continue to support Wildanet as a non-executive director. Wildanet was founded in 2017 to bring high-speed internet to rural and hard-to-reach areas in the South West.
In July, the company struck a deal with telecoms giant Nokia to speed up the roll out of broadband across the region.