South Ribble
Andy Hunter

Early Career and International Experience

After graduating with a Law degree in the late 1970s, Andy Hunter embarked on a career in the oil and gas engineering industry, focusing on logistics and systems. His career took him to diverse locations including Scotland, offshore platforms, Norway, Holland, and Libya. During his time in Libya, he worked on what is now known as the world’s largest irrigation project. He relished the opportunity to experience the mild African sun and navigate the complex political landscape, including working in Benghazi amidst the conflict between Reagan and Qaddafi in 1986.

Advancing with an MBA and Corporate Success

In pursuit of further education, Andy completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Cranfield School of Management, a highly regarded institution currently ranked #80 globally among over 16,000 organizations offering this qualification. The MBA program at Cranfield proved transformative for Andy's career. He joined Hoskyns, a leading software and services company in the UK at the time, which was later acquired by Cap Gemini, a global IT services and consulting powerhouse.

Entrepreneurship and Industry Impact

In 1990, Andy transitioned from corporate life to entrepreneurship, founding his own software company. He successfully scaled the business to over 70 employees, with operations in Surrey and Salem, Massachusetts. The company leveraged emerging Microsoft Windows technology to develop innovative image-based systems for the UK Police Service and a market-leading Customer Experience Management system. This system became instrumental for numerous prominent brands, including BT, Next, O2, WH Smith, Toyota, Hertz, and McDonald’s, and is now utilized by over 70,000 users in the UK’s banking sector.

Contributions to Business and Community

After 12 years of growing his business, Andy took a step back from the industry and engaged in various roles including a three-year tenure as the ‘Enterprise Facilitator’ in East Lancs. He played a pivotal role in helping individuals transition from employment to entrepreneurship, supporting numerous business start-ups and expansions. Additionally, he collaborated with the UK’s leading business angel company, linking investors with promising businesses, and assisted in setting up and selling a marketing agency, maintaining involvement even after 15 years.

A Commitment to Education and Alumni Leadership

Andy also spent six years living in the Czech Republic, further broadening his international experience. His connection to Cranfield School of Management remained strong, and in 2019, he was appointed President of the Alumni Association, overseeing a network of over 35,000 members globally. He served on the School’s Strategic Advisory Board until stepping down in 2023.

Returning to Local Roots and Political Aspirations

Now residing in the Borough, Andy Hunter, a Preston native from Kirkham Grammar, is eager to serve as the Member of Parliament for South Ribble with Reform UK. He is committed to representing the constituency fairly and equitably, drawing on his extensive experience in business, community engagement, and international relations.