Julian is a veteran of fast-growing technology companies and an expert on the opportunities, pitfalls and dangers that scaling technology businesses can bring in the age of AI. Julian was formerly Chairman of SCL Group and COO & CFO of the Cambridge Analytica / SCL group of companies. From 2015... Read more
Julian is a veteran of fast-growing technology companies and an expert on the opportunities, pitfalls and dangers that scaling technology businesses can bring in the age of AI.
Julian was formerly Chairman of SCL Group and COO & CFO of the Cambridge Analytica / SCL group of companies. From 2015 to 2018 he oversaw the growth of the group into one of the most influential data analytics companies in the world, employing ground-breaking analytics and targeted communications which have shaped the advertising industry and the debate around data privacy and personal data. In 2018, following the media controversy surrounding Cambridge Analytica, Wheatland stepped into the role of Group CEO in order to “clean up the mess”.
Julian is a serial entrepreneur who has spent 25 years investing in, managing and advising breakthrough technology companies: matching their strategies to markets, managing the challenges of rapid growth, and delivering value for customers and investors. He now runs Adastra, a business he set up to help AI and security technology companies connect with their customers and manage the challenges of scaling in a fast-moving environment.
Wheatland began his career at PA Consulting, advising clients on the impact and opportunities created by online innovation. He moved into fund management in the mid-noughties investing into early stage cleantech and security tech companies and, from there, founded Hatton International, a specialist technology commercialisation business.
Prior to Adastra, Julian was CEO of Progility Technologies (a systems integrator), CEO of Brava Systems (an enterprise management system for the real estate industry), and CEO of Cornerstone FS plc (now Finseta plc), a fintech company which he listed on AIM in 2021.
He speaks publicly on managing tech growth, technology strategy & marketing, entrepreneurship, data ethics and the impact of AI on corporate operations.