Cloud Direct has appointed Leighton Searle as its new CEO, as the Bath-based Microsoft partner looks to scale its AI and cloud services.
Searle brings more than 25 years’ experience in the technology sector, including almost two decades at Microsoft, where he held senior leadership roles focused on cloud, data and AI transformation at a global level.
He succeeds founder Brett Raynes, who established the business 22 years ago and will move into the role of executive chair, continuing to shape the company’s strategic direction and product development.
Founded originally as Back Up Direct, the company pivoted to cloud services in the late 2000s and has since become one of the UK’s longest-standing Azure Expert Managed Service Providers.
Cloud Direct employs around 150 people across the UK and South Africa and reported 26% year-on-year revenue growth.
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Under Searle’s leadership, the company will focus on helping organisations adopt and scale advanced AI capabilities built on Microsoft technologies.
“Cloud Direct has earned an outstanding reputation as a trusted Microsoft partner, and I’m honoured to join such a talented team with a strong, customer-first culture,” he said on his appointment.
“I’m excited to lead the next chapter of growth, helping organisations unlock the full potential of Microsoft technologies and embrace the transformative power of AI.”
Raynes added: “Founding and then leading Cloud Direct for two decades has been a real privilege.
“As we continue to deepen our AI services, Leighton’s experience and vision will help us scale faster and deliver even greater impact for our frontier customers.”