Phil Cowell
Head of OperationsPhil joined Cunning Running Software Ltd after 23 years as a Warfare Specialist in the Royal Navy, bringing with him a wealth of experience in Counter-Terrorism, Weapons, and Air Defence. This expertise is invaluable to our clients, ensuring they receive the most current and relevant knowledge in the field. As the Customer Relations Manager, Phil plays a pivotal role in the company, blending leadership with strategic customer engagement and comprehensive project oversight.
His commitment to cultivating customer relationships, driving marketing and sales strategies, and overseeing the delivery of our bespoke Force Protection and Counter-Terrorism Geospatial software is instrumental to our success. This software is crucial for both UK and overseas Military and Law Enforcement agencies, where it plays a vital role in their operations.
Outside of work, Phil resides in the Portsmouth area with his wife and two dogs. Having successfully evicted his two grown-up children, he now relishes the opportunity to escape for adventures in his VW campervan, exploring new places and enjoying the open road.
John Overend
Customer Support and Training ManagerJohn became a valued member of our team in January 2020, bringing with him an impressive 30-year legacy in the Police Service. Throughout his career, he excelled in several critical roles, notably as a Police Search Advisor (PolSA) and Coordinator. His expertise and leadership in these areas have left a lasting impact on the field.
In his current role as Training Delivery Lead, John leverages his extensive experience to enrich our training programs, particularly through his proficiency with our software. His dedication ensures that both our UK and international clients receive unparalleled support, enhancing their operational capabilities and effectiveness.
Beyond his professional commitments, John has a passion for staying active. He finds balance in life through walking, cycling, and boxing, pursuits that reflect his dynamic nature and dedication to personal wellbeing.
Ricky Humby
IT ManagerI'm an IT technician from Southampton, so I'm really excited to be joining the team at Cunning Running!.
I've worked in various IT roles over the last 20 years, across Marine, Oil and Gas sectors, along with numerous MSP's.
I’m Microsoft Certified (MCSA, MCP, MCTS) and also a VMWare Professional (VCP-DCV), and have a particular interest in security/Infrastructure.
When I'm not at work, I "try" to keep fit, and I'm a big Saints fan!
Sam Hedges
GIS Mapping ManagerSam Joined the Team in January 2025 with a robust background in geographic information systems (GIS). he has an Honours degree in Geology, a Master’s degree in Geological and Environmental Hazards, and over eight years of industry experience. Sam has worked in the telecoms sector with Cityfibre for four years and within the Geotechnical industry for four years. His career equipped him with specialized expertise in GIS leveraging spatial data for strategic, high-stakes applications.
Samuel oversees the development of digital mapping layers essential for a threat vulnerability software, providing critical support to UK police and military clients. He is responsible for sourcing and acquiring spatial data from various suppliers and processing it through advanced GIS applications such as FME, QGIS, and Skyline Software products. Sam ensures the software can efficiently interpret and display high-quality, precise maps.
Residing in scenic West Dorset, Sam is an active outdoor enthusiast who enjoys badminton, kayaking, cycling, hiking, Traveling, holidays in his campervan and swimming. He also captains a local skittles team and has a keen interest in pool and photography, capturing both natural and urban landscapes.
Hazel Perella
Office ManagerHazel joined our team in 2011. She began her career as an Advertising Designer, before moving into Marketing. At the same time, she gained her Honours Degree in Psychology through the Open University.
Hazel spent six years working with the MoD within the land systems maintenance marketing team, working with everything from the Challenger Two main battle tank to laser sighting systems. She then went on to lead the development of a low carbon sector.
The experience she gained enabled to her become a freelance Business Development Consultant specialising in the defence and counter terrorism sectors. In addition to managing our office she is also a Director on the EOT Board.
Chris Barrington Brown
Founder and Employee Ownership Trust DirectorChris is the founder of Cunning Running Software and retired as Managing Director at the end of June 2022.
Over 35 years he built the company to its current world leading position, before steering its evolution into an Employee Ownership Trust. Chris is a Director on the board of Trustees.
Why are we called Cunning Running? Chris is passionate about orienteering!
Duncan Bednall
EOT Board ChairmanDuncan has a broad range of financial & management skills after a 38-year career with a leading Banking group before retiring in 2017.
Subsequently, he helped a major UK Civil Engineering firm transition to Employee Ownership & to continue its successful growth as Non-Executive Chairman & Independent Trustee. He now brings his skills and experience to Cunning Running.
Together with the other EOT Trustees, he will support the wider business in its future growth & success.
In his spare time, he loves road cycling and generally being outdoors.
