Phil is Ploughshare’s VP Commercialisation for Digital and Data, and currently also serves as acting VP for Defence and Security. As a member of the senior leadership team, he sets the vision and strategy for the business units, delivering operational plans that include people management, resourcing, capability building, and overseeing licensing and spin-out activity.
With a 30-year career spanning the IT industry – including telecoms, financial services, and legal sectors – Phil brings expertise in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. He spent 12 years leading a technology commercialisation team at Queen’s University Belfast, focusing on innovations in cybersecurity, AI, and advanced wireless technologies. Phil has also contributed to multiple spin-outs there, supporting ventures that have transitioned from research to market.
Phil holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and a Master’s in Computer Science. He is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and has hands-on experience with start-ups, including two early-stage ventures, one of which was acquired for $250 million in 1999.
Outside work, Phil is an experienced hockey coach at the top levels of club hockey in Ireland and enjoys motorcycles and gardening.
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