Alan is the CEO and President of the Talia Group. The Talia Group has grown from a satellite network operator to become a total solutions provider running a global satellite network as well as a significant terrestrial network with offices across the world. His keen understanding of the communications sector has led to the extensive growth of the group.

After an early career in Auditing at Ernst & Young, Ruud became Finance Director at Baird Europe, a US manufacturing company's European subsidiary. In 1999, Ruud joined SES, a global satellite operator, where he was part of a successful team that grew the business. He moved up through the organisation, leaving as Vice President of Finance after over 20 successful years at the company.