Professional Background
I am a veteran in the IT industry, having played a key role in the early rollout of the internet and held senior positions at Rank Xerox, where I developed a passion for data centre infrastructure and enterprise technology. I also contributed to the creation of a new computer science programme at a university, helping to shape the next generation of IT professionals.
My technical foundation was built through an HNC in Electronic Systems and Design, followed by a City & Guilds qualification in Electronics and Microcomputer Systems, which provided a highly practical, hands-on approach to learning. A key takeaway from my studies was an in-depth understanding of the Post Office and banking systems, particularly Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), which revolutionised digital transactions and financial communications.
As a Black minority in the UK, the City & Guilds route offered a more accessible pathway to employment due historical racism. I was often met with the notion that "Stuart can't be an engineer, but you can be a mechanic," reflecting the limited expectations imposed on Black professionals. Determined to break through these barriers, I pursued a degree in Software Engineering, taking on complex projects that honed my skills in data centre infrastructure, software development, and enterprise IT solutions.
However, my journey in the tech industry was not without challenges. Racism within these systems was evident, from walking into a Microsoft building for an interview and being made to feel unwelcome by all, to attending interviews where I was refused even the opportunity to be assessed. These experiences reinforced my awareness of the barriers Black professionals continue to face in industries rife with systemic bias. This issue remains critical today, as we witness some of the world’s wealthiest individuals driving policies that seek to turn back progress with policies that disproportionately harm people with darker-shaded skin tones.
My passion for technology was sparked from a young age. Inspired by sci-fi classics like Lost in Space, I dreamt of building robots and exploring space. My parents nurtured this curiosity, leading me to experiment with electronics, robotics, and computing. This early fascination evolved into a deep understanding of telecommunications, networking, and the global business processes that underpin modern connectivity.
At Rank Xerox, my career became more than just a job but a passion for innovation, business transformation, and technological advancement. Working at the intersection of IT and business strategy, I developed expertise in scaling enterprise systems, optimising infrastructure, and driving digital transformation.
Beyond the corporate world, I have always been driven by a vision of economic empowerment and self-sufficiency for Black professionals. Inspired by my father’s entrepreneurial spirit, I sought to build a business that not only fosters innovation but also creates opportunities for those historically excluded from the industry. Rather than focusing solely on barriers, my mission is to actively create pathways to success through business ownership, strategic partnerships, and sustainable economic development.
With a strong foundation in technology, business leadership, and inclusive economic growth, I am now focused on forging long-term, sustainable collaborations that drive innovation, create opportunities, and redefine industry standards.