London-based software provider ClearCourse has appointed Simon Black, its current non-executive director, as chair of the board.
Black has been appointed to help steer the firm’s next phase of growth, building on its expertise in vertical software and embedded payment solutions for SMEs.
He was previously CEO of PPRO, which became a global player in alternative payments under his leadership, and earlier led SagePay to a tenfold increase in revenue.
He serves as the chair of several businesses, including Onafriq and FORESIGHT, the latter of which he founded.
A serial entrepreneur, Black also advises companies such as TrueLayer and Cleverbridge.
“It is fantastic that Simon has stepped into the role of Chair of the ClearCourse board at such an exciting time in our journey,” said Christina Hamilton, CEO of ClearCourse.
“His experience in supporting founders through business transitions will be invaluable in supporting ClearCourse’s ambitious plans for growth.
“We look forward to working more closely with him to continue delivering value for all stakeholders.”
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The business, which is known for its high volume of acquisitions, has already swooped for three firms so far in 2025 – Computers for Flooring, AvonData (Rezcontrol) and Davidson Richards – as it looks to grow its footprint in key vertical markets.
Black added: “I am delighted to become the chair of the board of ClearCourse, supporting the team to deliver on the mission to help small and mid-size UK businesses to grow – an incredibly tangible and motivating goal, and one that I greatly relate to.
“SMEs are the backbone of our economy, and in these challenging trading times, technology can be the difference between surviving and thriving.
“I look forward to supporting ClearCourse’s management team in unlocking opportunity for their customers to scale and prosper, by adopting ClearCourse’s mission-critical sector specific software and embedded payment products.”