Cheltenham's Emerge Digital appoints new head of innovation

Published by

Peter Davison

Phil Ball

Cheltenham-based strategic IT provider and digital innovation consultancy Emerge Digital has appointed Phil Ball as its new Head of Innovation.

Phil, a recognised industry leader with over two decades of experience in software development and management, assumes the role as Emerge Digital sets its sights on continuing to develop its innovation capabilities.

His proven track record in leadership roles at 7 Layer Solutions and Spire Healthcare demonstrates his abilities in implementing strategic initiatives and managing large-scale projects.

As Head of Innovation, Phil will be instrumental in driving growth in the innovation division of Emerge Digital. His role will include enhancing the company's proficiencies around Microsoft Dynamics 365 and the Power Platform, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, and optimising project delivery across the business.

He will work closely with clients on their Digital Business Strategy, identifying areas where technology can drive business improvement.

This strategic appointment comes as Emerge Digital embarks on several significant projects. Phil will lead existing Microsoft Dynamics & IoT projects for a number of clients, kick start a software development graduate scheme, and spearhead the adoption of AI internally at Emerge Digital - as well as echdeveloping AI as a commercial offering into clients.

Nigel Church, CEO of Emerge Digital, said, "Phil's appointment marks a significant milestone in our strategic growth. His wealth of experience and innovative approach aligns perfectly with our vision. We're confident that his contribution will propel Emerge Digital to new heights."

Tom Henson, Managing Director at Emerge Digital, added, "Having Phil on board reinforces our commitment to excellence and innovation. His leadership will further empower us to deliver state-of-the-art technology solutions that our clients need."

Phil holds a first-class degree in Software Engineering and has successfully navigated companies through ISO 27001 and changes to GDPR/Article 30. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, football, socialising, and occasional gaming.

Peter Davison

Peter Davison is deputy editor of The Business Magazine. He has spent his life in journalism – doing work experience in newsrooms in and around Bristol while still at school, and landing his first job on a local newspaper aged 19. By 28 he was the youngest newspaper editor in the country. An early advocate of online news, he spent the first years of the 2000s telling his bosses that the internet posed both the biggest opportunity and greatest threat to the newspaper industry and the art of journalism. He was right on both counts. Since 2006 he has enjoyed a career as a freelance journalist. He lives in rural Wiltshire with one wife, two children, and three cats.