Technology

Innovation


Stay ahead of the curve with an innovation pipeline

Leading the way with Innovation


Invention is the key to longevity

Creating a solid foundation for a lifecycle of innovation


Your innovation pipeline and lifecycle is an essential growth catalyst, but very few companies have a successful methodology in place.


Creating the right conditions for innovation requires a high level of internal organisation as well as the necessary frameworks, tools and communication channels to plan, design and execute your ideas. Done well, an innovation pipeline can generate exponential ROI, disrupt your market and widen the gap over your competitors. Put simply, companies that consistently innovate will stand the test of time.

“If you look at history, innovation doesn’t come just from giving people incentives; it comes from creating environments where their ideas can connect.”

Steven Johnson

94%


Of managers are dissatisfied with their company's innovation

<50%


Of companies have a formal innovation process

84%


Of executives agree that innovation is vital for growth strategy

$3.4tr 


The amount invested globally on innovation in 2020

Our unique Approach

Innovation strategies that give exponential ROI


End-to-End Support

From the initial strategy ideation through to a fully scaled implementation, our focus remains on empowering you with the crucial innovation capabilities required for launching and sustaining products at scale.

Customer Focus

Our primary focus is aligning your objectives with the expectations and demands of your customer base. This customer-centric approach guarantees that your innovation efforts are precise and impactful.

Innovation Labs

We work with a range of partners who specialise in innovation labs and workshops—as well as working with students, schools and universities to create mutually beneficial links with your local communities.

Culture of Innovation

We can help you build an innovation culture that embeds innovation strategies and feedback loops across your organisation.

Speak to one of our experts


How we help our clients

Our team of experts has decades of experience providing Innovation strategies to both private and public companies

Innovation Strategy

By analysing current market conditions and internal capabilities, we can support you to create a clear and actionable plan to promote innovation, establish goals, and develop a structured process for ideation and delivery, all while remaining aligned with your broader business strategy.

Product Development

We are equipped with Product Development services to support you in bringing a product to market at any stage in the process, from ideation, opportunity analysis, and validation, to market research, design, prototyping, and launch.

Innovation Workshops

Our experts can design and implement interactive sessions and encourage participation from your organisation to promote creativity and collaborative thinking in order to drive innovation. These can be tailored to address any specific challenges that you are facing, or focus on any opportunities on your horizon.

Our Process


An iterative approach to innovation

1| Strategy


Design an innovation strategy that aligns with your mission-critical goals. We conduct external analysis to grasp the trends influencing customer behaviour and market dynamics, which allows us to identify high-return domains for your innovation investments

2| Workshops & Labs


We focus on dismantling the traditional barriers that hold back creativity and collaboration, such as silos and geographical limitations. Our goal is to cultivate a culture of innovation throughout your company, ensuring that every corner of your business is engaged and contributing to your pipeline.

3| Sprints


In a world where product and business model lifecycles are rapidly shrinking, immediate and bold steps are vital. Collaborating closely with our clients, we engage in a dynamic, sprint-based methodology to swiftly develop and release minimum viable products (MVPs) that align with the overall strategy

4| Lifecycle & Pipeline


We identify a strategic course to acquire the capabilities required to foster innovation; whether it be through corporate venturing, forging strategic partnerships, making targeted acquisitions, or fostering internal development. This ensures your innovation ecosystem remains dynamic, scalable, and aligned with goals.

David Lewis against a blurred office background

Our Innovation service is led by David Lewis

Managing Partner - Digital & Innovation

David is a seasoned executive with over 30 years in technology and digital transformation. He began his career in the early 90s, consulting for companies like Netflix and founded Sri Lanka's first ISP in 1998. David has held leadership roles at Trapezo, Sony Music, and co-founded One5 Corporation. He led major transformations at Tech Mahindra and Infosys in Europe's telecom industry.


At Cognizant, he shaped the first digital transformation group. Later, as Director at the UK Cabinet Office, he advised on digital services and established the Chief Digital and Information Officer function. David now contributes to organizations like Capita and serves as a Non-Executive Director for SSV Capital Ltd, while also being a Trustee for the Carers Network.

Our team can be your team


Our team of experts have multiple decades of experience across many different business environments and across various geographies.


We can build you a specialised team with the skillset and expertise required to meet the demands of your industry.


Our combination of expertise and an intelligent methodology is what realises tangible financial benefits for clients.

CONTACT THE TEAM

Our Innovation Experts

Innovation Case Study
Delivery of Global EV Charging Hubs


A multinational client wanted to invest into network infrastructure (WAN, LAN, WLAN) to provide EV charger connectivity with a PCI compliant payment solution, in order to deliver a reliable and secure service and the best customer experience possible across a portfolio of global sites. 


The goal was to provide the same experience and services on all EV charging sites that carry the client’s logo while not being directly in charge of making decisions as to which locations will be equipped with EV chargers.


This EV charging programme delivery needs to be closely aligned with other network upgrade programmes running simultaneously on all customer owned/operated sites in multiple countries. 


The client approached us to support the development and implementation of a ‘cookie-cutter’ network connectivity solution that would be accepted and implemented in cooperation with their teams responsible for the deployment.

READ CASE STUDY

“I think frugality drives innovation, just like other constraints do. One of the only ways to get out of a tight box is to invent your way out.”


Jeff Bezos

Industry Insights


by Faye Holland 11 July 2025
Today, we are proud to be spotlighting Faye Holland, who became Managing Partner at Cambridge Management Consulting for Client PR & Marketing as well as for our presence in the city of Cambridge and the East of England at the start of this year, following our acquisition of her award-winning PR firm, cofinitive. Faye is a prominent entrepreneur and a dynamic force within the city of Cambridge’s renowned technology sector. Known for her ability to influence, inspire, and connect on multiple fronts, Faye plays a vital role in bolstering Cambridge’s global reputation as the UK’s hub for technology, innovation, and science. With over three decades of experience spanning diverse business ventures, including the UK’s first ISP, working in emerging business practices within IBM, leading European and Asia-Pacific operations for a global tech media company, and founding her own business, Faye brings unparalleled expertise to every endeavour. Faye’s value in the industry is further underscored by her extensive network of influential contacts. As the founder of cofinitive, an award-winning PR and communications agency focused on supporting cutting-edge start-ups and scale-ups in tech and innovation, Faye has earned a reputation as one of the UK’s foremost marketing strategists. Over the course of a decade, she built cofinitive into a recognised leader in the communications industry. The firm has since been featured in PR Weekly’s 150 Top Agencies outside London, and has been named year-on-year as the No. 1 PR & Communications agency in East Anglia. cofinitive is also acknowledged as one of the 130 most influential businesses in Cambridge, celebrated for its distinctive, edge, yet polished approach to storytelling for groundbreaking companies, and for its support of the broader ecosystem. Additionally, Faye is widely recognised across the East of England for her leadership in initiatives such as the #21toWatch Technology Innovation Awards, which celebrates innovation and entrepreneurship, and as the co-host of the Cambridge Tech Podcast. Individually, Faye has earned numerous accolades. She is listed among the 25 most influential people in Cambridge, and serves as Chair of the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. Her advocacy for women in technology has seen her regularly featured in Computer Weekly’s Women in Tech lists, and recognised as one of the most influential women in UK tech during London Tech Week 2024 via the #InspiringFifty listing. Faye is also a dedicated mentor for aspiring technology entrepreneurs, having contributed to leading entrepreneurial programs in Cambridge and internationally, further solidifying her role as a driving force for innovation and growth in the tech ecosystem. If you would like to discuss future opportunities with Faye, you can reach out to her here .
Cambridge MC Falklands team standing with Polly Marsh, CEO of the Ulysses Trust, holding a cheque
by Lucas Lefley 10 July 2025
From left to right: Tim Passingham, Tom Burton, Erling Aronsveen, Polly Marsh, and Clive Quantrill.
Long curving glass walkway looking out on a city. Image has a deep red tint and high contrast
30 June 2025
Cambridge Management Consulting is delighted to announce that we have been recognised as a Platinum-level telecommunications consultancy in Consultancy.uk’s 2025 ‘Top Consulting Firms in the UK’ ranking. This achievement places us among an upper tier of telecommunications consultancies across the UK, reflecting our continued commitment to delivering exceptional expertise and results for our clients in this rapidly evolving sector. A Rigorous Assessment The Consultancy.uk ranking represents one of the most comprehensive evaluations of the UK’s consulting landscape, assessing over 1,400 firms across the country. This methodology combines extensive client feedback from more than 800 clients and peer reviews from over 3,000 consultants, alongside detailed capabilities assessments that examine the reputation of each firm, project track records, analyst benchmarks, industry recognitions, and thought leadership. Within the telecommunications sector specifically, over 500 consulting firms were evaluated, with only 50 qualifying as top players. The ranking system operates across five distinct levels – Diamond, Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze; thus, Platinum status cements Cambridge MC as one of the most trusted, expert, and influential telecommunications consultancies in the UK. This recognition is particularly meaningful given the competitive nature of the UK’s telecommunications consulting market, where established global firms compete alongside specialist independents. Our Platinum ranking demonstrates that Cambridge MC has successfully established itself as a leading authority in telecommunications strategy, transformation, and innovation. Building on a Foundation of Success This latest accolade adds to Cambridge MC’s impressive collection of recent achievements and industry recognition. At The Consultancy Awards 2024, we were honoured to receive three awards, winning in every category for which we were nominated. These included: Digital Transformation: Acknowledging our project management of a multinational oil and gas company’s EV charging hub portfolio. Productivity Improvement & Cost Reduction: Celebrating our delivery of over £10m in savings for a major UK online retailer. Fastest Growing: Recognising our remarkable 30% revenue growth and expansion across new geographies. Beyond organisational achievements, our individual team members continue to earn recognition for their expertise and contributions. Zoë Webster, expert at Cambridge Management Consulting for AI, Digital & Innovation, was named among AI Magazine’s Top 10 AI Leaders in the UK & Europe. Furthermore, Craig Cheney, Managing Partner for Public Sector & Education, was made an Alderman of the City of Bristol, and Marvin Rees OBE, a member of our advisory board, was introduced to the House of Lords. Craig and Marvin were also co-founders of the Bristol City LEAP project, which recently received the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Award of Distinction for Public-Private Collaboration in Cities. This £1bn partnership between Bristol City Council and Ameresco UK represents a world-first initiative in sustainable urban development, demonstrating our capacity to deliver transformational projects with genuine societal impact. At the Forefront of Digital Infrastructure and TMT Our Platinum ranking in telecommunications specifically reflects Cambridge MC’s deep expertise across the full spectrum of Telecoms, Media & Technology (TMT) challenges. We work alongside TMT companies to optimise digital infrastructure and estates while delivering integrated cost reduction services that enhance procurement and contract management functions. Our capabilities span from digital transformation, procurement and network transformation to data centre optimisation and emerging technology integration. The telecommunications landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with exponential data growth, IoT deployment, and the infrastructure demands of generative AI driving substantial transformation in both virtual and physical infrastructure. Our team support organisations to stay afloat in this changing market, with a proven track record including managing over $5bn in client revenues, saving organisations over $2bn, and driving procurement transactions exceeding $5bn. Recent case studies demonstrate the breadth of our telecommunications expertise, from conducting technical due diligence for major investment decisions, to designing and procuring modern network solutions for leading academic institutions. Our work with the University of Bristol, helping them to complete their progressive Modern Network transformation, exemplifies our ability to navigate complex technical and commercial requirements, while delivering measurable outcomes. Looking Ahead As we celebrate this Platinum recognition, Cambridge MC remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in telecommunications consulting. Ever since Tim Passingham founded Cambridge Management Consulting, to support telecommunications startups in the city of Cambridge, UK, our purpose has been to help clients make a better impact on the world. This mission drives everything we do, from individual product delivery to industry-wide transformation initiatives. This achievement belongs to our entire team of specialist practitioners who bring decades of hands-on experience to every engagement. As we continue to expand our capabilities and global reach, this recognition serves as both validation of our progress and motivation for the challenges ahead. Thank you to everyone who has joined us on this journey.
Wide angle photo of Pemrboke College on a sunny day
27 June 2025
Disclaimer: The text below was originally published on the Pembroke College website. Read the original post here to read the full article, including coverage of the award's other recipients, Duncan Rule and Ian Carry. 2025 Volunteers of the Year Announced Congratulations to Duncan Rule, Ian Carry and Tim Passingham (2022) whose contributions to Pembroke have been recognised in Pembroke’s Volunteer of the Year Awards for 2025. The award was introduced in 2022 to recognise not only the particular individuals who contribute their time and expertise for the benefit of the College and its community but also the value of volunteering itself. Duncan and Tim received their awards from the Master, Lord Smith of Finsbury, last week, with Ian set to receive his at the LEAP celebration event next term. Tim Passingham Since joining Pembroke as a William Pitt Fellow in 2022, Tim Passingham has become a highly valued member of the College community. A consistent supporter of the Corporate Partnership Programme, Tim has played a pivotal role in connecting students with real-world opportunities. Through his companies—Cambridge Management Consulting and partner firm edenseven—Tim has offered numerous internships to students on the LEAP programme, helping them build professional confidence and practical skills. Beyond internships, Tim and his team have supported LEAP students through reflective post-programme interviews, offering valuable feedback for both participants and the LEAP team. His impact is visible in many aspects of College life: from advisory work on the Milstein House sub-committee to generous support for Pembroke’s musicians, including the donation of a drum kit. Tim has also brought significant visibility to Pembroke within the wider Cambridge community. Under his leadership, the College was a key host during Cambridge Tech Week 2024, welcoming visitors for lectures, panels, and a Deep Tech Gala Dinner. Regularly using College spaces for high-profile meetings and team retreats, Tim has become a recognisable and influential figure around Pembroke—embodying the spirit of collaboration and innovation that the Corporate Partnership Programme aims to foster. On receiving this award, Tim said "when I was invested as a William Pitt Fellow in 2022, I stated that my desire was to give to the College and work hard to bring the worlds of Academia and Industry closer together. Since then, me and some of my team at Cambridge Management Consulting have supported numerous LEAP interns, sponsored our first PhD student at Pembroke, supported the CARA charity and initiative, supported the Mill Lane site programme, and given as much time and money as we have been able to support the Development Team and the growth of the College. I feel enormously honoured to receive this award which, for me, represents very much the beginning of a partnership which I hope will deepen and grow over many years to come. I look forward to the years ahead and to serving the College as we seek to continue to build on the incredible legacy of Pembroke by having a disproportionate impact for good on the world around us.”
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Get in touch with our team today


We are a highly collaborative team of senior-level executive professionals able to adapt to any challenge, however niche & challenging.

+44 (0)1223 750335

info@cambridgemc.com

Contact Form - Innovation

Case Studies


Our team has had the privilege of partnering with a diverse array of clients, from burgeoning startups to FTSE 100 companies. Each case study reflects our commitment to delivering tailored solutions that drive real business results.

CASE STUDIES

A little bit about Cambridge MC


Cambridge Management Consulting is a specialist consultancy drawing on an extensive global network of talent. We are your growth catalyst.


Our purpose is to help our clients make a better impact on the world.

ABOUT CAMBRIDGE MC