Born in the United Kingdom, from an early age, Neil set his sight on a career in the military where he served for 12 years. In his final military role, Neil was the commander of 120 soldiers in the Middle East, receiving a commendation for leadership under extreme circumstances.  He departed from military service in 2006.

Neil’s journey into the military was unconventional. At the age of 16, he received a substantial injury that was to change his original plans. His wound was a significant barrier but did not deter him from achieving his goal. Over many years and with multiple rejections, he fought to overcome his injury and gain admission into the military.

His service began in the British Army Reserve, after proving himself through multiple medical and fitness tests. After several years of instruction, he received a Queen's Commission through the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He then qualified as an Infantry Platoon Commander and completed regimental duty with The 3rd Battalion, Staffordshire Regiment (Prince of Wales’s), leading 30+ soldiers in various situations.

Neil has operated in various roles, part-time (reserve) and full-time (regular), in locations around the world including Northern Ireland, Kenya, Malta, Falkland Islands, Iraq, Kuwait, Egypt, Germany, United States, Belize and Gibraltar.

He also completed an exchange with the Australian Defence Force (ADF), 9 Royal Queensland Regiment (Army Reserve), Brisbane, Australia. His experience supported the training and deployment of Australian soldiers for the International Force East Timor (INTERFET).

Post military: Neil settled in Australia and has founded several businesses. Whilst remaining hands-on, he now also operates in a governance role to support commercial interests. He is recognised as an experienced global leader, entrepreneur and company director with far-reaching governance and advisory experience across private and public organisations. He is renowned for his deep understanding of digital, data and emerging technologies in a globally competitive economy.

During his ‘spare’ time, Neil was the driving force behind the formation of the Australian charity, Mates 4 Mates. His founding vision and leadership ensured a focus on supporting a new generation of service personnel within Australia.