- INCA appoints Paddy Paddison as CEO, succeeding founder Malcolm Corbett; Paddison aims to amplify members’ voices and support Altnets’ growth.
- Transition signals INCA’s readiness to enhance influence and member services, driving UK’s digital infrastructure forward under Paddison’s leadership.
OUR TAKE
Paddison’s appointment heralds a new era for INCA, leveraging his extensive experience to champion Altnets’ interests. This shift promises strengthened advocacy in regulatory discourse, vital for competing with major players like Openreach. Enhanced member engagement and service improvement will further solidify INCA’s role in advancing the UK’s digital infrastructure.
–Vicky Wu, BTW reporter
What happened
The Independent Networks Cooperative Association (INCA) has announced the appointment of Paddy Paddison as its new CEO, replacing founder Malcolm Corbett who will assume an advisory role.
Paddison brings over four decades of industry experience, from the early days of cable technology to the current fibre revolution. His hands-on expertise stems from his role as one of the founders of Wildanet, a rural alternative network provider, where he addressed numerous challenges and opportunities. Paddison expressed his honour in leading INCA into its next phase, stating his commitment to amplifying members’ voices in critical discussions regarding regulation, infrastructure, and funding. He also highlighted his intention to engage directly with members and various governmental bodies to ensure the vital role of Altnets is recognised and supported.
INCA founder Malcolm Corbett, reflecting on his fifteen-year tenure, expressed pride in helping the Altnet sector grow and match Openreach in building full fibre networks. Corbett will continue to offer consultancy support to Paddison until the end of the year.
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Why it’s important
This transition marks a pivotal moment for INCA, the largest trade body for alternative network providers in the UK since its inception in 2009. Under Paddison’s leadership, INCA is expected to enhance its influence, improve member services, and intensify efforts to shape policy and regulatory frameworks that foster a competitive and innovative telecommunications landscape. The change comes after a period of significant growth for the Altnet sector, which has evolved from a niche group to a collective force capable of rivaling established players.
Tim Stranack, INCA Chair, thanked Corbett for his contributions and expressed confidence in Paddison’s ability to drive the organisation forward, ensuring it continues to deliver value to its members and contributes to the digital advancement of UK households. This appointment signals INCA’s readiness to meet future challenges and seize opportunities in the evolving digital infrastructure landscape.
