JUDGES

Simon Burkhardt is representing Comms Council UK. He is an experienced C level executive in the UK and international telecoms and technology sector. His most recent experience is in the UK fibre (FTTP) and cloud communications sectors.

Simon presently holds non exec board roles with bOnline, Magrathea, and The Communications Council UK, whilst also conducting advisory work across the telco sector.

During his career, he has held leadership positions including stints as CEO at Kelly Communications, managing director at both Vonage (now part of Ericsson) and Connexin, the FTTP provider in Hull. Prior to those roles, he worked globally in a number of regions in C level positions for operators such as Telefonica O2, BT, MTS and Ooredoo.

Most recently Andy was the SVP for marketing at Digital Barriers, a British technology company backed by 3I. Digital Barriers’ patented AI-based video codec technology enables law enforcement and defence sectors to unlock the full potential of real-time video over cellular, including live facial recognition.

He has over 25-years’ B2B marketing experience within the technology, SaaS, and telecommunications sectors. Andy has worked for Mitel, ShoreTel, Nortel and Avaya in field and channel marketing leadership roles. Andy also founded Bowan Arrow, a successful B2B Channel Marketing consultancy. He has been a champion for partner-first marketing with vendors throughout his career.

Lucy Green, the Managing Director of Larato is a B2B Business Development Specialist with a steadfast commitment to enhancing the success of UK technology resellers. With over two decades of experience in crafting and executing revenue growth strategies for technology, communications, and media sectors, Lucy is valued for her strategic acumen and passion for delivering tangible value to buyers.

As a judge for the prestigious Comms Business Awards 2024, marking its 20th anniversary, Lucy brings a wealth of expertise to the panel, contributing to the recognition of industry excellence. Her leadership at Larato underscores a collaborative approach, partnering with C-suite executives and sales leaders across the UK to tailor bespoke, evidence-based go-to-market plans. These initiatives not only engage more customers but also drive revenue growth and secure competitive advantages for her clients.

Lucy also champions the "Making a Difference” initiative in the West Midlands that is fostering relationships between local resellers and small businesses. This pioneering effort exemplifies her dedication to enhancing community engagement and economic prosperity.

Lucy is a geek who is passionate about innovation, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the dynamic landscape of B2B technology development. Her vision and strategic skills continue to encourage and transform the industry, sharing knowledge and intelligence to facilitate growth and customer-centric success.

Itret Latif was appointed CEO of the Federation of Communications Services (FCS) at the beginning 2019. He has held several leading non-executive positions in telecoms and energy and has provided evidence to House of Commons and House of Lords select committees in these areas. Notably, he was the first to identify broadband as a utility and also called for regulatory change and restructuring of BT.

Itret has an energy utility background. As a former senior executive of Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE), he established and headed the company’s retail telecoms and gas businesses. He joined the FCS board in 2009 and was appointed deputy chairman before stepping into his CEO role.

David is a well-known strategist, keynote speaker and influencer on cloud computing, digital transformation, social collaboration and ERP software. In 2023, he was appointed CEO of the Cloud Industry Forum, stepping up from director and deputy chair of the organisation.

He is a specialist in sales, marketing and operations in the technology sector, and guest lectures on digital and social media at Henley Business School and on INSEEC’s MBA programme. David is an advisor and non-exec director for several companies, and a regular host on the tech TV channel Disruptive.Live.

Adam Zoldan has over 25 years’ experience in the telecoms and technology sector. He is founder and director of Knight Corporate Finance, a specialist boutique which helps entrepreneurs realise their ambitions through advising on strategy, funding, acquisitions and exits.

Founded in 2008, Knight has successfully delivered over 120 transactions across the ICT sector. Adam was formerly a managing director of V Networks which was acquired by Opal Telecom and prior to this he worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers Corporate Finance as lead advisor for telecommunication transactions.