Next Generation Data, data centre specialists and designers and creators of NGD 1, one of Europe’s largest and most technically advanced data centres, has today announced the appointment of Dr Simon Orebi Gann as a Non-Executive Director.  Dr Orebi Gann will work closely with Next Generation Data’s management team to aid growth and ensure technological leadership. 

Next Generation Data is currently fitting out two halls, which should be completed by the end of Q1 2009.  It is also planned to start work on halls 3 & 4 during Q1 for availability in the late summer.  Next Generation Data is also in discussions with several blue chip clients who plan to use NGD 1 for data storage.

Dr Orebi Gann is one of the UK’s most experienced CIOs.  Before his seven years as CIO for BP Supply and Trading, he was Managing Director of Technology and Business Strategy at the London International Financial Futures and Options Exchange (LIFFE), where he was responsible for the conception, creation, delivery and implementation of LIFFE CONNECT, the world leading automated trading platform.

Previously, Dr Orebi Gann held senior IT executive positions at Marks & Spencer, where he developed and implemented food, clothing and homewares supply chain systems, established a data centre, and installed the first voice and data communication systems.  He has also served on two British government advisory committees, recommending priorities for their funding of IT research. More recently, Dr Orebi Gann has served on the board of US company Mapinfo, the leading provider of Location Intelligence solutions.

“As the demand for data centres continues to grow globally Dr Orebi Gann’s industry knowledge and understanding will enable Next Generation Data to continue to deliver highly secure, green and scalable data centres with adequate power and advanced cooling solutions,” said Simon Taylor, Chairman, Next Generation Data

“The need for data will increase exponentially over the next ten years as companies of all sizes, in every sector look to back up and store vital data, which is why I find the opportunity with Next Generation Data incredibly exciting.  The management team is made of bold entrepreneurs, with drive and determinism and I look forward to working with them to create a dynamic and successful business,” explained Dr Orebi Gann.

Dr Simon Orebi Gann joins Chairman Simon Taylor, CEO Nick Razey and FD Rob Edwards on Next Generation Data’s board.