Russ Shaw CBE, the influential founder of Tech London Advocates and Global Tech Advocates, has issued a rallying cry for the UK's technology sector. He argues the community must pivot from a mindset of weathering economic uncertainty to one of aggressive, forward-looking investment in talent and infrastructure to secure its position as a global leader.
From Finance to Tech: An Accidental Pioneer
Shaw's own journey into technology was not pre-planned. After building a career in financial services with giants like American Express, his pivotal move came in 1999 when he led the launch of the UK's first online share-dealing platform for Charles Schwab. This experience, during the frontier days of digital finance, cemented his belief in technology as a powerful force for democratising services and enhancing customer experience. This principle guided his subsequent C-suite roles at major firms like O2 and Skype.
Now 62, the American-born, Shepherd's Bush-based advocate is a central figure in London's tech landscape. His proudest professional moment was receiving a CBE in the Queen's 2021 New Year Honours for services to technology and business in London.
The London Advantage and the Need for Change
Shaw is a fervent believer in London's unique potential, describing it as "the world's only truly global city" due to its unparalleled ambition and convergence of diverse people, cultures, and industries. However, he believes tradition can sometimes hold it back. He wants to see a sharper focus on the future, actively championing the City as the unrivalled global hub for finance, tech, and other sectors it is poised to be.
His optimism for the year ahead is rooted in the UK ecosystem's fundamental resilience and its capacity to lead in fields like artificial intelligence and green technology. "My hope is that the business community shifts focus from surviving economic uncertainty to aggressively investing in the talent and infrastructure needed to scale globally," Shaw states. He identifies the skills shortage as the critical bottleneck, asserting that tackling it head-on would unlock exponential growth.
The Power of Community and Global Networks
For Shaw, the spirit of volunteerism within the tech community is a key inspiration. He looks up to the entrepreneurs in his Global Tech Advocates network, a grassroots movement he founded that now spans the globe. The network's power was starkly demonstrated in March 2022, just one week after the invasion of Ukraine, when Shaw helped launch its Ukraine Chapter. A virtual event attracting over a thousand global tech leaders showcased the community's ability to mobilise rapid, crucial support in a crisis.
When asked about the best career advice he's received, Shaw highlights the enduring value of personal integrity: "There are two things that are always with you: your network and your reputation – and don't screw up the latter."
Beyond the boardroom, Shaw's life revolves around family. Weekends in Shepherd's Bush are dedicated to recharging and spending time with his first grandchild, born in November. His favoured lunch spot is Toklas on Surrey Street, where his son is head chef, and for an after-work drink, he enjoys the buzz of The Ned. A well-earned break would see him returning to his roots in Arizona for sunshine, landscapes, and authentic Mexican food.
Russ Shaw's message is clear: the UK's tech foundations are strong, but the time for cautious survival is over. The future belongs to those ready to invest aggressively and build.
