Hi, my name is Giles Thurston

and I live just outside Cambridge, UK with my wife and our two sons.

With nearly 30 years of experience in technology, I have built a career spanning software development, digital design, product management, and business leadership. My expertise lies in simplifying the complex and delivering innovative yet practical solutions that empower teams and drive businesses forward. I thrive in environments where collaboration and strategic thinking intersect, leveraging my open and relaxed leadership style to guide projects and businesses to success.

Throughout my career, I have worked across various sectors, including finance, operations, and the public sector, with my recent focus on healthcare and life sciences. Here I’ve led the design and implementation of digital platforms that educate healthcare professionals and patients about critical pharmaceutical safety. At Axian Consulting, which I co-founded through an MBO, I led the company’s technology initiatives, achieving milestones like ISO 27001 certification and spearheading the development of our flagship cloud platform. I also drove our sustainability initiatives and was proud to achieve B-corp certification in 2024.

Prior to this, I served as Head of Life Science Digital Solutions for a large US based consulting business. I was responsible for creating and managing a global digital practice, delivering enterprise software solutions, and advising on the integration of technology across client organisations. My earlier roles included leading technology operations at Sitekit Solutions, where I worked extensively with the NHS on digital health innovations, and serving as CTO before being promoted to Director of Digital Solutions.

Key skills that define my approach include strategic leadership, solution design, business development, and team management. Whether it’s winning new business, managing client relationships, or guiding technical delivery, I combine technical insight with a clear commercial focus. My ability to translate technical complexities into accessible strategies ensures technology remains a tool for empowerment rather than a barrier.

Beyond the workplace, I have been a Trustee for the charity Mind Over Mountains for three years. My passion for ultra-running and outdoor adventures also, I believe, reflects my drive and commitment. These experiences, combined with a collaborative mindset, allow me to bring energy, resilience, and a fresh perspective to the businesses, teams and projects I support.

A smiling man wearing glasses and a dark shirt, resting his face on his hand, with a lanyard around his neck and a watch on his wrist.

My Key Skills

Leadership and Strategic Thinking

  • Open and relaxed leadership style.

  • Strategic oversight of projects and business units.

  • Board-level experience guiding company vision and strategic planning.

Technology and Product Expertise

  • Deep technical background in software development and digital design.

  • Product and platform development, including enterprise software solutions.

  • Expertise in solution design and technical delivery.

Project and Team Management

  • Experience managing multi-disciplinary teams across multiple locations.

  • Oversight of large-scale digital projects and technical programs.

  • Proven ability to align technical teams with broader business objectives.

Business Development and Client Engagement

  • Winning new business through pitching, bid writing, and contract negotiation.

  • Building and maintaining strong client relationships.

  • Leading client engagements and managing accounts.

Sector-Specific Expertise

  • Extensive work in healthcare and life sciences, including NHS and pharmaceutical clients.

  • Knowledge of public sector platforms and digital health solutions.

  • Extensive experience of the charitable and not-for-profit sectors

Sustainability

  • Led a business to successful B-corporation certification

  • Development of NET Zero policies and other sustainability initiatives

Certifications and Quality Management

  • Leading successful ISO 27001 certification processes for multiple businesses.

  • Oversight of security and quality management systems.

  • Oversight of corporate data protection policies and related technical operations.

Communication and Collaboration

  • Skilled at simplifying complex technology for diverse audiences.

  • Collaborative approach to working with teams and stakeholders.

  • Strong brand management and marketing insights.

What Others Say

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