The people behind Grape
Grape Software brings together expertise from food safety, hospitality, software development and business growth. We are united by a simple belief: the people responsible for keeping food safe deserve better digital tools.
Our core team is supported by an experienced advisory board spanning strategy, data governance, finance, digital transformation, product marketing, project delivery, people and food safety. Together, we challenge assumptions and keep our products grounded in the needs of the people who will use them.
We combine sector knowledge with direct input from Local Authorities, Environmental Health Officers, auditors and food businesses.
Core team
The team shaping our vision, product and technology.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
James brings more than 30 years of food-industry experience across hospitality, food safety, nutrition, allergens, consultancy and training. A Registered Associate Nutritionist and experienced founder, he combines deep sector knowledge with practical skills in customer research, product design, UX and business development. James founded Grape Software to create better digital tools for the people responsible for keeping food safe.
Interim Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Dave has more than 35 years of software-development experience and has worked on over 30 SaaS platforms as an architect or adviser. His expertise includes web development, user experience, digital strategy, agile delivery, technical due diligence and innovation. He has supported start-ups, commercial partnerships and investment rounds, and also teaches innovation and technology at Durham University Business School.
Senior Backend Developer
Peter “Shawty” Shaw is an experienced technologist who has worked across software development, electronics, networking and cloud-native .NET since first dismantling a ZX81 in 1979. He runs Digital Solutions Computer Software Ltd and has contributed to contactless payments, Orange UK’s 3G rollout and airport eGate technology. Peter is also a Pluralsight instructor, Syncfusion author, technical book writer, LiDNUG organiser and regular speaker at UK technology events.
UI / UX Frontend Developer
Innocent is an experienced UI/UX designer and frontend developer who has worked on a variety of web and mobile applications. He has a strong background in user-centered design, prototyping, and front-end development technologies. Innocent is passionate about creating intuitive and engaging user experiences.
Advisory board
Our advisers bring independent experience and constructive challenge as Grape Software develops, grows and enters new markets.
Strategy and Operations Consultant
Simon is a senior management consultant with more than 25 years of experience in leadership and transformation. He advises organisations on strategy, operating models, risk, succession planning, programme delivery and cost optimisation, bringing a clear commercial perspective to complex organisational challenges.
Strategic Board Adviser
Arthur's career spans research, mathematical modelling, technology product ownership, consulting and senior CTO, COO and CIO roles. He now advises organisations on strategy, organisational effectiveness, risk, compliance and the effective use of technology, with a particular interest in mission-led businesses that use innovation to create meaningful change.
Digital Transformation
David is an experienced CTO and digital-transformation leader who helps organisations use technology to create value and scale successfully. His expertise covers technology due diligence, acquisitions, integration, operating-model design, global team building, outsourced technology services and enterprise transformation.
Product Marketing, SaaS and Go-to-Market Strategy
Sean is a marketing strategist specialising in go-to-market planning, product positioning, market research and cross-functional leadership. He has supported start-ups and established businesses with SaaS launches, differentiated messaging, customer acquisition and alignment across product, engineering, design, sales and support teams.
Data Management Specialist
John is a data specialist with a strong commitment to ethics, governance, privacy and security. Drawing on experience across technology, compliance and risk, he helps organisations improve data quality, embed responsible governance and align working practices with regulatory standards while retaining a pragmatic, people-first approach.
Project and Programme Management
Craig is an experienced project and programme manager with PRINCE2 and MSP qualifications and expertise across Agile, Waterfall and Kanban delivery. Over more than 20 years he has led technology, digital, operational and organisational-change programmes, helping teams deliver complex work with clarity, adaptability and focus.
Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Bradley is a commercial and strategic CFO who helps early-stage businesses raise finance, build robust infrastructure and scale internationally. His experience spans SaaS, digital health, fintech, manufacturing and gaming, with more than $60 million raised and involvement in four business exits. He also mentors founders and represents the North East on the CIMA Council.
Food Safety Consultant and Trainer, MCIEH MRSPH
Jill is a highly experienced food-safety consultant with more than 40 years in hospitality management and further education. She has worked with Local Authorities, the NHS, Compass, The Prince's Trust and food-service businesses, and is a qualified trainer for CIEH and Highfield awarding bodies. Jill has advised Grape Software since its inception.
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