Vice President of Research and Development at Telefonica O2 Europe, Dr Mike Short CBE was responsible for some of the most innovative and ground-breaking mobile phone services, and became one of the leading figures within the mobile industry. He has also been Chairman of the global GSM Association and the UK Mobile Data Association (MDA).
Mike graduated in Economics from Lanchester Polytechnic, now Coventry University, in 1974, before embarking on a career in Electronica and Telecommunications now spanning 33 years. Mike was appointed in 1989 as Director of Cellnet, now known as O2 UK, to deal with major infra-structure investments.
His focus changed in 1993 to establishing Cellnet’s Global System for Mobile communications service (GSM) and Roaming Agreements for UK users abroad, and later moving on to agreeing the developments associated with Third Generation mobile (3G) technology. Prior to his current role he established O2’s office in Brussels.
He has also been an advisor to Ofcom, UK Radio Communications Agency, and more recently, a Director of UK Premium Rate Regulator Phonepayplus. Since spring 2007 he has also chaired the UK Trade and Investment ICT Sector Advisory Board associated with inward investment and ICT exports.
Mike’s work with O2 and the MDA, for promotion of the uses and benefits of mobile data, has seen him centre his attention on 3G mobile technology, Mobile TV, Wireless health and steering O2’s group Research and Development.
During his illustrious career, Mike was also creator of the Global Mobile Awards. Originally started 12 years ago while in his role as chairman of the GSM Association, the award ceremony recognises individuals for innovative mobile technology advancement. He has also been called by Parliamentary committees to advise them on mobile matters, while managing to take the time to be a guest lecturer at Staffordshire University. In June 2005 Mike was asked by the University to be the keynote speaker during an event dedicated to Research and Enterprise day.
He was awarded a CBE in 2012 for his services to the mobile industry.
In 2017, Dr Mike Short CBE became the first Chief Scientific Adviser for the Department for International Trade (DIT).
Dr Mike Short CBE Is also Visiting Professor at Surrey University, Leicester’s De Montfort University and the University of Lancaster, as well as a Board member for Coventry University.