Original article Total Telecom:Read More
Industry veteran Steve Leighton, an influential figure in the UK telecoms industry and Chairman of ISPA (Internet Service Providers Association), joins award-winning ISP infrastructure specialists Altnets as Strategic Advisor on 1 August 2025. This appointment comes at a critical juncture as Altnets aims to increase market share, accelerate growth, and redefine how the telecoms sector approaches infrastructure distribution.
More than just a new chapter for Altnets, this appointment is a powerful declaration of the company’s future course and its commitment to assisting the UK’s quickly changing connectivity demands. Under Steve’s counsel, Altnets will enhance its standing as a major force behind full fibre broadband infrastructure delivery, supporting the transformation of the industry.
With 20 years’ experience in the telecommunications sector, plus a stint in government, Steve offers Altnets an unparalleled combination of entrepreneurial skills and policy knowledge. He is best known for his decade of service as CEO of Voneus, where he promoted digital inclusion and rural broadband expansion. As a strategic advisor and entrepreneur, he has also supported several ISPs and tech companies.
Currently serving as Chairman of ISPA, the UK’s trade association for internet service providers, Steve represents more than 200 members, ranging from large corporations to agile small and medium-sized players. He has in-depth knowledge of the commercial and regulatory forces influencing the telecoms sector, thanks to his previous senior government positions, such as Head of Communications Sponsorship at the former Department of Trade and Industry.
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!”
This couldn’t have come at a more crucial moment for Altnets. Faster, more effective, and better-connected supply chains are critical to achieving the UK’s digital goals. Accelerating the country’s connectivity rollout is an urgent commercial and societal necessity, not just a business priority. Altnets is in a better position than ever to take the lead in unlocking this infrastructure, assisting ISPs, and contributing to the delivery of the high-speed broadband that the UK sorely needs, thanks to Steve’s strategic direction.
This appointment coincides with the formal transition of Olly Shepherd into the role of Managing Director, marking a new phase of leadership for Altnets as the business intensifies its emphasis on development, innovation, and market expansion.
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 been a catalyst behind some of the UK’s most significant infrastructure projects in recent years, driven by his enthusiasm for the telecoms sector and its ability to change lives through connection. Beyond the boundaries of his roles, he has continuously influenced how the sector works together, innovates, and addresses the needs of digitally disadvantaged people.
To find out more about how Altnets is disrupting the telecoms industry, go to https://www.altnets.co.uk/.