Altnets is currently experiencing a lot of buzz, and it’s not just due to our new office revamp and brand makeover. With Olly stepping into the role of Managing Director and a fresh wave of momentum across the business, the energy here has never felt stronger. We are further pleased to announce that, as of August 1, 2025, industry titan Steve Leighton will be joining Altnets as a Strategic Advisor.
As the current Chairman of ISPA, the UK’s Internet Service Providers Association, and a well-known telecoms leader with more than 20 years of experience, Steve’s appointment is more than just a significant milestone for us. It represents a bold move for Altnets as well as for the distribution of ISP infrastructure in the UK moving forward.
Steve served in senior positions in the government and private sectors throughout his lengthy career, and he offers a unique mixture of policy knowledge and business acumen. His ten years as CEO of Voneus, where he promoted digital inclusion nationwide and helped bring broadband to remote regions, are what made him most widely recognised. Additionally, he has served as a strategic advisor and entrepreneur for several rapidly expanding ISPs and tech innovators. To put it simply, he understands this industry wholeheartedly.
Reflecting on his appointment, Steve shares:
“I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the incredible team at Altnets as a Strategic Advisor to the Board. I’ve watched the business grow from both my Voneus seat and more latterly from my seat as the Chairman of ISPA.
“As I enter the most exciting phase of my career, I’m focused on working with businesses that have a clear edge in a competitive market, and Altnets has that. I want to work with driven, like-minded people who share my values, ambition, and positive spirit. The Altnets team ticks every box, and I’m looking forward to helping them realise their big plans while having some fun along the way!”
The timing of Steve’s appointment is crucial. The UK government has set ambitious goals for connectivity, yet these goals cannot be satisfied without smarter, quicker, and effective infrastructure supply chains. We at Altnets take pride in being a key player responsible for bringing about this evolution.
With Olly Shepherd taking over as Managing Director, Altnets is embarking on an exciting new phase. With Steve on board, we’re stepping up our efforts to upend established and outdated supply chain frameworks, expedite the delivery of ISP infrastructure, and continue to provide our partners with long-term value.
Olly said:
“We are delighted to welcome Steve to Altnets! His appointment represents a significant milestone for us and underscores our position as a leading force across the telecommunications sector.
“Steve’s guidance will be instrumental as we enter our next phase of growth and strengthen industry partnerships. With the ISP landscape evolving rapidly, his expertise gives us real confidence in navigating what’s next and helping to steer our strategic direction.
“This appointment shows our commitment to partnering with top industry experts to deliver outstanding connectivity and lasting value for our customers and stakeholders.”
Steve has long been a driving force behind advancement in the telecom sector, not only delivering infrastructure projects but also influencing how the sector operates, innovates, and supports communities. His principles coincide with our own, and his background will add even more excitement to an already fascinating journey.
For Altnets, this is a significant moment. However, it’s only the start.
Curious about what comes next?
Discover how Altnets is transforming telecom infrastructure in the UK by collaborating with ISPs to provide faster, more intelligent, and more adaptable solutions.
Contact our team: [email protected]
