Welcome to Chess

David is the Founder and Executive Chairman of Chess ICT, one of the UK's leading independent and trusted technology service providers, employing over 360 people across the UK and supporting over 30,000 business customers. David named the company after his two eldest children, Jess and Charlie, has received several accolades throughout his career, including Institute of Directors' Cheshire Director of the Year 2009 and seeing Chess top The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For list in 2018.

David was made Deputy Lieutenant of Cheshire in 2012 and received an Honorary Doctorate of Business from the University of Chester in May 2022

Stephen is an experienced telecoms & IT professional with over 35 years industry experience. After graduating from the University of Manchester, Stephen started his career with Lister and Co PLC working for them for 12 years, rising to the position of Head of IT.

Stephen then set up Hoodpoint Communications, specialising in providing ICT, Data and Voice communications and business phone systems. The business was sold to Chess in 2005.

Stephen stayed on at Chess, rising to the role of Group Managing Director in 2012. He became Chief Operating Officer in 2020 and runs the operational and commercial teams day-to-day. He is also closely involved in Chess Merger & Acquistions activity.

Warren spent his early career in the motor industry, working in sales and sales management positions for BMW. He entered the telecoms industry in 1995 and joined Chess in 2004, becoming Group Sales Director. Warren is responsible for all Chess sales divisions, including Web Sales, Account Development, Corporate, and Wholesale.  

An avid cyclist, Warren has completed many endurance events to get the thrill of the challenge and raise money for charities. On weekends he can be found cycling in the Peak District however has just taken on the renovation of a 250 year old cottage which he fears will restrict his time on the bike!

Emma joined the Chess Family in 2006 and is passionate about making Chess ‘a great place to be a customer’ and delivering quality service. She is continually looking at ways to make the customer experience even better. As Customer Experience Director, she guides her people to deliver exceptional service and support and immerses herself wholeheartedly into raising standards and improving processes to get it right first time for our customers.

Richard is a prolific dealmaker with a record of more than 200 transactions (M&A, IPOs, JVs, including cross-border) as “corporate advisor” and, within industry, as Chairman and Director of private and listed companies.

With a highly entrepreneurial approach, Richard has been instrumental in formulating Chess’ strategy for growth in turnover from £5m to £150m over the past 10 years due to bank-supported acquisition activity. When not delivering strategic growth for Chess, Richard enjoys his passions for Modern British Art, skiing, tennis, and yoga. 

Oliver is responsible for leading the sales team and ensuring Chess is a great place to be a customer. With over 10 years in the telco industry, Oliver joined Chess in 2019 and previously worked for UK industry giants like Vodafone.

His expertise is in mobile and voice communications, and he consults SMBs on growth through technology. A keen horse rider, he's competed in multiple equestrian championships and trials. He inspires and motivates his teams by actively participating in Chess' award-winning culture. 

Andy is an experienced leader, commercially focused with a strong record of achievement in B2B amidst some of the fastest growing companies and markets in the UK. He joined Chess in 2015 and interests are football and golf.