The Independent Networks Cooperative Association (INCA) has announced the appointment of Paddy Paddison as its new Chief Executive Officer. Paddison succeeds founder Malcolm Corbett, who will transition into an advisory role.

Paddison brings a wealth of knowledge with over four decades of experience from the early days of cable to the current fibre revolution. As one of the founders of Wildanet a rural alternative network provider, Paddison brings hands-on experience in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing INCA’s members.

“I’m honoured to lead INCA into its next chapter, building on the strong foundation Malcolm has established over the past 15 years”, said Paddison. “As CEO, my priority will be to amplify our members’ voices in critical discussions around regulation, infrastructure, and funding. I’m committed to engaging directly with our members, as well as with government, devolved governments and regional authorities, to ensure the crucial role of Altnets in building the UK’s digital future is fully recognised and supported.”

INCA founder, Corbett, led the organisation to become the largest Altnet trade body in the UK since its launch in 2009, and will continue to support Paddison on a consultancy basis through to the end of the year.

“Founding and leading INCA has been one of the proudest achievements of my career”, said Corbett. “We have helped the Altnet sector grow from a visionary, rebel group to collectively matching Openreach in building the full fibre networks of the future. Fifteen years is a long time to lead an organisation, so I am happy to seek new opportunities as Paddy leads the team taking INCA into its next phase.”

Tim Stranack, INCA Chair, added: “I would like to extend thanks from me and the INCA Board to Malcolm for making INCA the leading trade-body voice for alternative networks as they have flourished across the country. I’m now looking forward to working with Paddy to make sure INCA continues to deliver value to its members as we scale-up and bring growth, opportunity and better value to a growing number of UK households.”

Paddison’s leadership will focus on expanding INCA’s influence, enhancing member services, and driving the association’s efforts to shape policy and regulatory frameworks that support a competitive and innovative telecommunications landscape.