AI and mobile network specialist AWTG scored something of a coup after tempting experienced industry executive Dr. Mike Short (pictured) to become its latest chair.

Short is perhaps best known for a 17-year stint as VP of Telefonica Europe, a role he followed by becoming chief scientific adviser at the UK’s Department for International Trade.

Most recently, Short was chief architect for the Satellite Applications Catapult, a company dedicated to expanding the sector in the UK.

These are the recent examples of a 40-year career in telecoms which saw Short involved in deploying 2G and 3G, and chairing the GSMA.

AWTG was predictably pleased to name Short its new chair: CEO Abbey Alidoosti described his appointment as a “pivotal moment” for the company.

The company hopes to tap Short’s vast experience to advance international growth and innovation ambitions. AWTG provides end-to-end engineering and technology services, focusing on telecoms, tourism, and various smart sectors including cities, education and retail.

Short said he is impressed by AWTG’s progress “in private networks, AI and operational systems”, highlighting the importance of these to sectors including transport, healthcare and satellite communications.