A high flier since his TMT career began with Digital Equipment, where he became the youngest ever District Manager at the age of 29, Hudson has blazed a trail in high profile roles. Joining C&W in 1996, he built up their European ISP business in 1999 through a series of multiple acquisitions before moving into a VP role focused on global M&A activity. Other notable roles include CEO of Telecity Plc, the leader in pan-European data centres, where he engineered a successful turnaround and take-private with 3i which culminated in the eventual merger with Redbus. Most recently as CEO of MLL Telecom, he successfully expanded the business through strategic relationships with BT and Virgin Media, as well as acquiring two national spectrum licences in the most recent Ofcom auctions.
Hudson will assume the role of CEO from company founder and IT entrepreneur Ben White, who will continue in a non-executive role within the organisation. Commenting on Hudson’s appointment White says, “Star has experienced tremendous growth over the last eighteen months and is poised for even greater success as we enter a new era of convergence and networked enabled applications.” He continues, “With the further prospect of Cloud Computing just over the horizon, we believe that we can really help UK businesses exploit these new technologies, and Ricky’s experience in growing organisations both organically and through acquisitions will prove invaluable in the next phase of our company’s development.”
Hudson adds, “My prior background in the managed service and telecom market place will serve Star well in achieving our ambitious growth goals for the future. The current challenging economic climate means that maximising the leverage of IT whilst offering exceptional service to customers will become more important than ever. I’m extremely positive about the contribution I can make and the exciting future ahead for Star.”