UrbanChain Appoints Lee Stretton as CTO Amid Rapid Growth and Global Expansion Plans

Manchester-based CleanTech leader UrbanChain, recognized as the UK’s third fastest-growing technology company, has announced the appointment of Lee Stretton as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Stretton, who brings over 25 years of experience in tech and fintech, is set to spearhead the company’s technology strategy to support its ambitious growth and international expansion.

Strategic Appointment Following Record Growth
Stretton joins UrbanChain following a standout career, including roles as CIO of Monevo, Europe’s largest personal credit platform and API, and Managing Director at Raisin UK, a European fintech backed by PayPal and Ribbit Ventures. UrbanChain’s recent 8,000% growth over the past year highlights its disruptive impact on the energy market, making the appointment a pivotal step in scaling operations further.

“To join a company as revolutionary as UrbanChain is incredibly exciting,” said Stretton. “Our focus is on implementing a unified tech solution to manage virtual power stations, optimize energy distribution, and ensure fair pricing for both generators and consumers. The opportunity to contribute to such transformative growth is unparalleled.”

UrbanChain’s Expansion Momentum
The appointment comes just days after UrbanChain engaged KPMG to lead its £50+ million Series B funding round. The company’s leadership team, boasting over 300 years of experience in energy and technology businesses, is accelerating efforts to expand its pipeline, which now includes solutions for electric vehicles (EVs), electric heating systems, and grid management.

UrbanChain’s Founder and CEO, Somayeh Taheri, expressed her enthusiasm for Stretton’s addition to the team: “Lee’s extensive expertise aligns perfectly with our mission as we scale both in the UK and internationally. His leadership will be instrumental as we execute our technology roadmap and drive innovation in energy solutions.”

Recognized Excellence and Growing Team
Operating from Manchester Science Park, UrbanChain’s headcount has surged from 10 to 75 in the last year. The company has attracted customers across diverse sectors, including industrial sites, office buildings, local authorities, and hospitals, while securing backing from prominent investors such as Eurazeo.

UrbanChain’s achievements were recently celebrated at Deloitte’s UK Technology Fast 50 awards, where the company won four major accolades. With energy veteran Graeme Cooper now leading US expansion efforts, UrbanChain continues to position itself as a trailblazer in CleanTech innovation.

A Vision for Sustainable Energy
UrbanChain’s energy-matching platform has already disrupted traditional energy markets, demonstrating revolutionary applications in creating sustainable and efficient energy ecosystems. Stretton’s leadership is expected to further enhance the company’s ability to provide cutting-edge solutions, optimize energy networks, and expand its global reach.

“This is just the beginning,” said Taheri. “With Lee on board and our sights set on international growth, UrbanChain is ready to redefine the future of energy.”