Leading telecoms law specialist Trenches Law has announced the strategic hire of a new non-executive director, as the firm furthers its ambitions to bridge the UK’s digital divide in Multi-Dwelling Units (MDUs). The news of the significant addition to the business’ leadership team comes just days after its Code powers consultation with Ofcom was released.
Bringing over 30 years of senior telecoms and fibre experience to his new role, Simon Burckhardt’s rich career portfolio spans roles including Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Kelly Communications, managing director at Connexin and Vonage UK — where he oversaw UK and international business, including providing VoIP services to a number of the major UK fibre providers — Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at Telefonica O2 Czech Republic, and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Ooredoo in Qatar.
Simon has also played central roles in the telecoms industy’s evolution through consultancy projects with prominent altnets and telecoms companies, including Community Fibre, Zzoomm and Gamma. He currently holds non-executive and advisory positions with bOnline and Magrathea.
Commenting on his appointment, Simon Burckhardt said: “I’m thrilled to join Trenches at this exciting juncture in the company’s growth. Having had the privilege of working alongside the team in various capacities throughout my career, I’ve been consistently impressed by their commitment to excellence and innovation — including augmenting resources for the MDU market, which has been incredibly overlooked and underserved. I look forward to contributing to the company’s continued success.”
Sharon McDermott, co-founder and managing director at Trenches Law, concluded: “Simon’s extensive board-level experience, coupled with his deep understanding of the fibre sector, place him in great stead to help us execute our strategic MDU roadmap. His established reputation within the industry and existing relationship with our team make him the ideal candidate to help us realise our growth potential.”
Undertaking advisory non-executive duties, Simon will assist in developing and implementing the next stages of Trenches Law’s growth strategy, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of progress in the telecoms space and strengthening its value proposition for the MDU market.
Trusted by the Solicitors Regulation Authority via its sister company Trenches Limited, Trenches Law’s Ofcom consultation is set to conclude in the next 30 days. Pending this, the firm stands ready to streamline the process of obtaining wayleaves, conducting surveys, installing telecoms infrastructure, and ‘tapping in’ local altnets to make connection-ready networks truly accessible by way of assignment and non-favour of altnets and operators.
The team, including Simon, will be exhibiting at Connected Britain, on stand five, from 20-21 September.
