CityFibre Announces Leadership Changes Amid Fiber Rollout Push
CityFibre, the UK’s largest independent full fiber platform, is shaking up its leadership team as it ramps up efforts to expand its network to 8 million homes by 2025.
Belcher Named Chief Delivery Officer
Richard Belcher, formerly Group Chief Operating Officer at Gamma, has been appointed as CityFibre’s first Chief Delivery Officer. In this new role, Belcher will oversee the company’s entire build program, which aims to pass up to 800,000 new homes per year.
“Richard’s deep experience in scaling organizations will be invaluable as we accelerate our rollout,” said Greg Mesch, CEO of CityFibre. “His track record speaks for itself.”
Hay Promoted to Chief Network Officer
David Hay, who joined CityFibre in 2019, has been promoted from Head of Network Delivery to Chief Network Officer. Hay will lead the company’s regional operations teams and network design functions.
“David has been instrumental in driving our build program forward,” Mesch noted. “His promotion is well-deserved.”
Hogg Steps Down as COO
With these leadership changes, current COO Simon Hogg will be stepping down after two years in the role. Hogg played a key part in establishing CityFibre’s organizational structure and operating model.
“We’re grateful for Simon’s contributions,” said Mesch. “He’s helped position us for the next phase of growth.”
Fiber Rollout Gaining Momentum
CityFibre’s £4 billion investment program is gathering steam, with the company now reaching 1.8 million homes across 60 cities and towns. It recently announced plans to extend its network to 216 additional locations.
“We’re connecting homes at an unprecedented pace,” Mesch stated. “These leadership changes will help us accelerate even further.”
Homeowners are eager for the faster, more reliable broadband that full fiber delivers. “I can’t wait to ditch my sluggish connection,” said Jane Smith, 38, of Nottingham. “CityFibre can’t get here soon enough.”
Ramping Up Construction Capacity
To hit its aggressive targets, CityFibre is doubling down on its construction capabilities. The company now has 26 build partners on board and plans to increase its construction workforce to over 10,000 by the end of the year.
“We’re pulling out all the stops to meet demand,” said Hay. “Our partners are just as committed to this mission as we are.”
Poised for Next Phase of Expansion
With a refreshed leadership team and growing momentum, CityFibre is well-positioned to bring full fiber connectivity to millions more homes in the coming years. The race to wire up the UK is on, and CityFibre is determined to lead the charge.
