GENERAL INFORMATION

A common set of standards is like a universal language: it brings people, businesses, functions, economies and societies together. In a world constantly growing in complexity, common standards make things easier. Standards are essential for international communications and global trade. Standardization can drive competitiveness – not just for individual businesses but for the world economy as a whole - by helping organisations with their efficiency, effectiveness, responsiveness and innovation. Manufacturers, network operators and consumers benefit in terms of lower prices and increased availability by reducing technical barriers and promoting compatibility between systems. Standards avoid costly market battles over preferred technologies, and for companies from emerging markets, they create a level playing field which provides access to new markets. They are an essential aid to developing countries in building their infrastructure and encouraging economic development. Speeding up the standards making process and developing a more strategic approach to new standards work is essential. It should be recognised that the creation of new standards is not an end in itself. New standards in new areas must be based on real market need.

ITU-T is a global standardization body. It has a unique history and a diverse membership. ITU standards are respected universally. To contribute to this important work directly would be an honour and I would work diligently, in the spirit of co-operation, to advance our shared goals. Over the last 20 years, I have gained extensive knowledge of the ITU and I believe I am a well known figure. The ITU has arrived at a crucial and exciting stage in its evolution and a dynamic ITU-T will be essential for taking on the challenges of the 21st century. Directors have a key role in this and to be effective they must be well versed in dealing with the whole organisation, as well as being knowledgeable in their own sector. If elected, I would strive to achieve these objectives. I would work collaboratively with the other elected officials as a team to seek and respond to the needs of the membership, in particular through the regional bodies. I would encourage further participation of developing countries in ITU-T to help bridge the digital divide and seek to make it the place where industry wants to come to develop its standards.

EXPERIENCE AND ACHIEVEMENTS

• Extensive knowledge of the ITU gained over 20 years

• Has acted since 1991 as Head or Deputy Head of UK Delegations to all ITU conferences, assemblies and advisory groups

• Well known to many of the key players in the ITU

• Reputation for conciliation, co-operation and innovation

• Proposed the new Global Standards Collaboration
  (Sydney, 2001)

• Chaired the Reform Group on standardization prior to PP-02

• Initiated many reforms in the ITU-T to speed-up the work and increase the role of the private sector

• Four years’ experience working in an international organisation – the European Commission – responsible for the projects and legislation supporting the

• development of the GSM and DECT technical standards

• Represented the European Commission in CEPT and the European Telecommunications Standardization Institute (ETSI)

• Initiated the process for regional preparations for ITU conferences, established and chaired first interregional group to prepare for an ITU conference (1995)

• Established the CEPT preparatory process for ITU conferences with European Common Proposals and co-ordination procedures and promoted the model in other regions

• Established the Commonwealth ITU group

• Has been responsible for many new initiatives in the management, structure and functioning of the ITU

EDUCATION

EMPLOYMENT