Meet the Team | Connekt EV Charging Specialists UK

Founder

Johnny Manning

Johnny is a pioneering force in the electric vehicle charging industry. As Founder and Managing Director of Connekt, he's driving the company's mission to become the UK's premier Charge Point Operator and Installer. With his innovative vision and strategic leadership, Johnny is at the forefront of shaping a sustainable future for transportation.

What is a dream that you want to make come true one day?

To have a self sustaining thriving business providing employment to a 40+ team that are thriving and growing every day together towards their business goals.

What is your favourite book, and tell us why you love it?

Who moved my "cheese by Spencer Johnson. A great story that gives gentle perspective in how our ability to change and adapt directly impacts the outcomes and aspirations we have in life.

What is the most important lesson that you’ve learned from working at Connekt?

The squeaky wheel gets oiled.

C.E.O

Willow

Willow isn't just any CEO; she's a four-legged wonder who brings unmatched joy and energy to our workplace. As our unofficial boss, Willow's wagging tail and playful personality are sure to brighten your day. Whether she's fetching a ball or simply spreading good vibes, Willow's presence reminds us that even the most important jobs can be filled with laughter and love.

Chief Financial Officer

Craig Maxwell

Craig is our Interim Finance Director, providing maternity cover and ensuring continuity across Connekt’s financial operations. With extensive experience in senior finance roles, including CFO and Financial Director positions across the technology and SaaS sectors, Craig brings deep expertise in fundraising, financial planning, and commercial strategy. His background makes him a trusted partner in guiding Connekt’s financial performance during this period of growth.

What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?

I play piano to a pretty high level and qualified to teach it.

What is the most important lesson that you’ve learned from working at Connekt?

Culture is king.

Who has been your biggest influence in life, and why?

My wife and kids by a mile. They keep me grounded, motivated, and constantly striving to be better. Plus, they’re the toughest (and most honest) board of directors I’ve ever reported to.

Commercial Director

Conor Charnley

Conor is our Commercial Director, bringing a wealth of experience from over 7 years in the EV sector with leading manufacturer Garo. He oversees Connekt’s commercial strategy, ensuring our solutions deliver long-term value for partners and site hosts. With deep industry knowledge and a proven track record in charging infrastructure, Conor plays a pivotal role in shaping our growth, driving innovation, and strengthening our position within the rapidly evolving EV landscape.

What would your perfect weekend look like?

My perfect weekend would be a balance of family, relaxation, and a bit of fun. I’d start by watching my son play football, then spend some time outdoors, walking Ralf the Cojack and Hugo the Dachshund in the country park near home. Evenings would be all about cooking dinner with my wife, sharing a bottle of wine, and catching up. And of course, if Spurs win, that’s the cherry on top.

What do you enjoy most about working at Connekt?

At Connekt I’ve learned that the value of people can’t be overstated. In a fast-paced industry like EV charging, you need to learn quickly, adapt constantly, and most importantly, work as a team. That combination is what makes progress possible.

What is a dream that you want to make come true one day?

A dream that means a lot to me is to one day retire to Donegal and live off-grid. The idea of a simpler, more self-sufficient life, like those shared in Ben Fogle’s Extraordinary Lives ( love this show ) – this really resonates with me. It feels like the perfect way to properly switch off and enjoy the next chapter of life with Noleen. Calm and relaxing after a busy career in EV charging.

Technical Director

Liam Fogerty

Liam is our Technical Director, a self-taught developer and programmer with a passion for innovation. With years of experience in the tech industry, he has honed his skills as a tech whizz, specialising in helping startups scale effectively. Liam’s expertise lies in streamlining tech stacks and implementing efficient solutions that drive growth and enhance performance.

What would your perfect weekend look like?

I love spending time with my family, we enjoy going for walks and having meals together.

What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?

In my spare time I enjoy making all sorts of things, wall calendars, furniture, boardgames, electronic toys, chalk shaped like a bar of chocolate etc!

What do you enjoy most about working at Connekt?

Helping improve all the technical systems we use and learning about the intricacies of EV charging!

Operations Director

Sharon Kirkham

Sharon is our Operations Director, bringing extensive experience across multiple sectors including energy and financial services. Having held roles at organisations such as Scottish Power and Tesco, she leads our operational strategy, ensuring efficiency, consistency, and high standards across the business. Her expertise plays a key role in supporting Connekt’s growth and delivering a seamless experience for our partners and customers.

What would your perfect weekend look like?

Meeting up with friends for food and drinks, then heading to a gig at the Barrowland. Nothing beats the atmosphere there.

What do you enjoy most about working at Connekt?

The people, and the pace at which we can get things done. It’s refreshing to work somewhere so dynamic.

What is a dream that you want to make come true one day?

To buy an old farm and turn it into a dog rescue and boarding kennels. A proper sanctuary for dogs who need it.

Non Executive Director (Marketing)

Scott McCulloch

Scott is a seasoned entrepreneur with over a decade of experience building and growing businesses. He brings his expertise to Connekt as the head of brand and marketing. In this role, Scott oversees paid and organic digital marketing strategies, as well as website and design initiatives. His deep understanding of the digital landscape equips him to drive effective brand positioning and customer acquisition.

What is a dream that you want to make come true one day?

I want to run Marathon Des Sables, the world's toughest foot race. 250km across the Sahara dessert in up to 50 degree heat. Why? Because it terrifies me and I want to prove I can commit to something that difficult.

What is your favourite book, and tell us why you love it?

Think & Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. Written in 1937, it's message is as relevant today as it was then. Favourite quote from the book "The subconscious mind will translate into reality a thought driven by fear just as readily as it will translate into reality a thought driven by courage or faith".

What is your favourite Connekt memory?

Taking a speed boat across Loch Lomond on a Team bonding excursion. The weather was perfect and the photos and videos were amazing. We had such a great time, climbing hills and island hopping in one of the most stunning locations on earth.

UK Sales Manager

Stephen Taylor

Stephen is a seasoned Sales Manager with a proven track record in sales and strategic partnerships. He brings over a decade of experience in the renewable and sustainable energy sector, having previously held a key position at Arnold Clark. As UK Sales Manager at Connekt, Stephen is responsible for identifying and fostering collaborative relationships that drive our growth and impact.

What would your perfect weekend look like?

Get up around 5am, take my dogs out on their massive walks. Get an hour in at the gym and get the house cleaned before I make breakfast. Spend time with my wife, having a nice lunch/dinner and generally chilling out. Get to watch a football game if fixtures are on. ( I realise I sound like a serial killer).

What is your favourite book, and tell us why you love it?

Who Moved My Cheese by Dr Spencer Johnstone. A great read about adaptability and success. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

What is your favourite Connekt memory?

Without a doubt our team day climbing Conic Hill, taking a speedboat across Loch Lomond and sharing the afternoon with the team.

Business Development Manager

Mike O'Raw

Mike is one of our Business Development Managers, working with hotels, venues and businesses to plan EV charging that suits their site, from the first conversation to the chargers going live.

Business Development Manager (East Scotland)

David Stoddart

David is our Business Development Manager for East Scotland, responsible for building strong partnerships and driving new opportunities across the region. By working closely with businesses and site hosts, David helps expand our charging network and deliver tailored EV solutions that meet local needs. His commercial insight and relationship-focused approach play a key role in growing Connekt’s presence and supporting the transition to sustainable transport.

What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?

As a poor student my little brother who was a child actor got me into being an extra. I have been in multiple tv programs and movies, the most notable was outlander where I played an English redcoat who shoots one of the main characters and fights in the Battle of Culloden.

Who has been your biggest influence in life, and why?

When push comes to shove it's my mum, when I was 13 she was diagnosed with a 3 month terminal illness, 20 years later and against all medical knowledge she is still with us. She has taught me the definition of resilience, work ethic and to enjoy life everyday. She is part of the reason why I joined Connekt, life is too short to do something you dont enjoy.

What do you enjoy most about working at Connekt

Knowing I am making a difference as the UK accelerates towards cleaner energy.

Business Development Manager - West of Scotland

Stephen Waugh

Stevie is our Business Development Manager for West Scotland, focused on creating new opportunities and strengthening relationships with businesses across the region. He works closely with site hosts to identify the right EV charging solutions, helping them unlock revenue potential while supporting the shift to greener transport. With his commercial expertise and people-first approach, Stevie plays a key role in expanding Connekt’s network and delivering value to partners and drivers alike.

What is your favourite book, and tell us why you love it?

'A Big Boy Did It And Ran Away' by Christopher Brookmyre. I love his use of Scottish vernacular to describe some truly wild and hilarious scenes in his stories. He's a very witty satirist.

What is the most important lesson that you’ve learned from working at Connekt?

The impact a great, focussed team can have on the performance of all, to the benefit of both company and customer.

Who has been your biggest influence in life, and why?

One previous leader helped mentor me for more than 10 years across multiple businesses and pushed me to be the person I am today. Thank you LH! Away from my career, I have always loved listening to Stephen Fry talk. His knowledge and eloquence would see him be the first name on my perfect dinner party invite list.

Business Development Manager (North Scotland)

James Mathieson

James is our Business Development Manager, driving growth and strategic partnerships across the UK. With over 20 years of experience in the energy and central heating industry, he works closely with hotels, leisure facilities, and property owners to deliver reliable, scalable EV charging solutions. His blend of technical expertise and commercial insight enables him to create practical, future-focused infrastructure that adds long-term value and supports the transition to sustainable transport.

Who has been your biggest influence in life, and why?

My papa, as a kid – spent most of my weekends at his. He taught me work ethic and to always be pushing myself. He’d have me doing circuits in the garden, take me to football training, timing me to run to the shops to get his papers in the morning!

What is a dream that you want to make come true one day?

If money was no object, I’d love to get my pilot’s licence. Always loved planes and have done flying lessons before. This was a great experience. I’m that geek watching planes overhead with my flight radar app –my youngest son at 4 has the bug now too.

What do you enjoy most about working at Connekt?

As cheesy as it is, it’s the culture. Good bunch of people and the best environment I’ve worked in over my 20-year career. We all have our own strengths and work well as a team. Genuinely belly laughing daily.

National Channel Sales Manager

Scott Galloway

Scott is our National Channel Sales Manager, tasked with building lead-generating partnerships with manufacturers and wholesalers while expanding our network of vetted installers across the UK. By strengthening these key relationships, Scott ensures Connekt continues to deliver high-quality installations at scale. His expertise in channel sales and collaborative approach play an essential role in driving growth and supporting the rollout of reliable EV charging infrastructure nationwide.

National Channel Partnership Manager

Dan Webster

Dan is our National Channel Partnership Manager, focused on developing strategic partnerships that help businesses accelerate their EV journey. He works closely with industry partners to expand access to end-to-end charging solutions, enabling organisations to adopt smarter, greener infrastructure, often with no upfront cost. By cultivating strong commercial relationships and identifying new growth opportunities, Dan plays a key role in scaling Connekt’s nationwide network and supporting the rollout of reliable EV charging across the UK.

In your personal life, what has been your most meaningful accomplishment so far?

Aside from the obvious, my amazing kids and being a dad. My proudest moments have been pushing my own limits: conquering the National Three Peaks and cycling from London to Paris. I’m already plotting my next big adventure - nothing like a challenge to make life feel alive!

What do you enjoy most about working at Connekt?

I enjoy the opportunity to make areal impact. Connekt sits at the intersection of sustainability, and people,and it’s rewarding to help businesses transition to EV charging in a way that genuinely works for them.

What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?

Most people wouldn’t guess it, but I’m all about rom coms for the feels and docufilms for the facts. Love stories and real-life stories.

Finance Manager

Gavin Lindsay

Gavin is our Finance Manager, responsible for overseeing day-to-day financial operations and ensuring the smooth running of Connekt’s accounts. With a strong focus on accuracy, compliance, and efficiency, Gavin plays a key role in supporting decision-making and maintaining the financial health of the business. His attention to detail and steady approach help keep Connekt on track as we continue to grow.

Assistant Network Manager

Gail Leggate

Gail is the driving force behind Connekt's commitment to exceptional customer service and reliability. As Assistant Network Manager, she ensures that our EV chargers maintain an impressive 99.13% uptime, keeping drivers on the road and businesses running smoothly. Gail's proactive approach to managing the network means she’s always one step ahead, swiftly resolving issues and guaranteeing that our clients experience seamless charging solutions.

What would your perfect weekend look like?

Having a lie in and recharging my batteries. Spending time with my 2 girls and walking my French Bulldog Alfie. Also catching up with friends when we can all get together.

What is a dream that you want to make come true one day?

I would love in later life to downsize and live near the sea. Maybe somewhere warm.

What is the most important lesson that you’ve learned from working at Connekt?

Team work makes the dream work.

Project Coordinator

Craig Watt

Craig keeps our installations on track as Project Coordinator, scheduling surveys, installs and handovers so every site goes live smoothly.

Network Manager

Grahame Critcher

Grahame is our Network Manager, keeping Connekt's charging network running reliably for site hosts and drivers. Before EV charging, he was a professional musician.

What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?

I used to be a professional musician.

What is the most important lesson that you’ve learned from working at Connekt?

The value of working in a great team, sharing ideas and experiences to support our customers and drivers in such a fast-paced industry.

What is your favourite book, and tell us why you love it?

"On the Road" by Jack Kerouac. I've always enjoyed travel and this story captures the allure of the open road in a beautifully fast paced, beat style of writing that I have always enjoyed. It always takes my imagination away when I read it (which I do every year).

Operations Support Engineer

Cameron Jow

Cameron is our Operations Support Engineer, dedicated to ensuring our EV chargers stay online and perform at their best. With a focus on resolving faults and addressing network issues, Cameron plays a vital role in delivering seamless experiences for both our customers and EV drivers. His technical expertise and problem-solving skills are key to maintaining the reliability of our charging network.

What would your perfect weekend look like?

My ideal weekend would be spend heading to a gig: seeing live music something I've always loved. Exploring different venues, and seeing all sorts of music is always exciting. Paired nicely with a local food place, somewhere tucked away would set me up for the week perfectly!

In your personal life, what has been your most meaningful accomplishment so far?

One of the most meaningful accomplishments I've achieved is getting my very own podcast (Music Is a Dead Scene) up and running with my best friend. We've always had a big interest in playing, and listening to music and having a podcast focussed around the types of conversations we have as musicians has been fantastic fun, we've had people listen in from all over the world, and people get involved in episodes! It's been a great journey so far, and we can't wait to see it continue to grow.

What do you enjoy most about working at Connekt?

Working in such a close team is something new to me, and having everyone so keen to lend a hand where possible is so refreshing. It's always nice to be surrounded by a positive team, that all want the same goal.

Marketing Manager

Karis McKenna

Karis McKenna is our Marketing Manager, bringing 10+ years of B2B and B2C experience across multiple industries. She leads the development of partner campaigns, brand content, and marketing initiatives that strengthen Connekt’s presence across the UK. With a strong background in campaign optimisation, brand management, and creative storytelling, Karis plays a key role in driving awareness, engagement, and commercial growth for our EV charging solutions.

In your personal life, what has been your most meaningful accomplishment so far?

Travelling. What started as a six-month travelling break turned into seven incredible years living in Australia. Moving across the world taught me independence, resilience, and cultural competence in a way nothing else could. It challenged me, stretched me, and ultimately shaped who I am today.

What is your favourite book and why?

‘Lost Connections’ by Johann Hari. What I loved most about it was the book’s focus on human connection. How much we all rely on community, meaningful interaction, and a sense of belonging - and how powerful it can be when we actively find ways to reconnect.

What do you enjoy most about working at Connekt?

The people. Everyone is so genuine and lovely. There’s never a day where you’re not laughing.

Sales & Operations Support

Lorraine Manning

Lorraine supports our sales and operations teams, keeping enquiries, paperwork and customer updates moving so every project runs smoothly.

Non Executive Director (Chairman)

Hugh Aitken

Hugh brings a wealth of global strategic leadership to Connekt. As Chairman, he leverages his extensive experience in Supply Chain and Manufacturing at industry giants like Sun Microsystems, Oracle, and Microsoft. His accomplished background provides invaluable guidance as we navigate the complexities of building and scaling a sustainable charging network.