Simon Clifton
Simon is a seasoned board director, entrepreneur, investor, and AI advocate with a strong track record in scaling technology-driven businesses. Over three decades, he has co-founded, led, and advised companies across telecoms, SaaS, marine engineering, and algorithmic trading.
As co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Bigblu Broadband PLC, Simon helped transform the company from a UK start-up into a multinational broadband provider, expanding across the UK, Europe, Scandinavia, and Australia. Initially focused on delivering alternative broadband to underserved areas via disruptive satellite technology, 4G, and 5G fixed wireless, the business rapidly scaled through an ambitious acquisition strategy. As part of the senior management team, Simon helped raise £43 million in debt and equity, acquiring 23 businesses across six countries in just six years and integrating them profitably into the wider group.
During his tenure, Simon led various functions, including IT, marketing, sales, and product delivery. He played a key role in the growth of Quickline, a Bigblu subsidiary that secured over £50 million in UK Government grants to build hybrid fibre/fixed wireless networks in the North East of England, later selling to Northleaf Capital for £50 million.
Following the sale of Bigblu’s European division in late 2020, Simon stepped down from the board but remains an investor as the PLC continues to exit its remaining business units through trade sales, returning funds to shareholders.
Now, Simon focuses on international expansion and the strategic application of AI and machine learning in business. He has a strong interest in the growing adoption of algorithmic trading models by hedge funds and specialises in helping businesses commercialise innovation, scale globally, drive growth through M&A, and harness emerging technologies for competitive advantage.
Beyond his role as a Scale-Up Director, Simon is a mentor, board advisor, and investor. Outside of business, he is a keen helicopter pilot and a champion of sustainable innovation in the maritime and industrial sectors.