As we continue our Meet the Team series, we introduce Keith Henry, the General Manager of CU Phosco Australia Pty and Global Telecoms lead.
Keith brings decades of lighting industry experience, a global perspective, and a passion for innovation. We caught up with him to learn more about his journey, his role, and what he gets up to when he’s not working.
HI KEITH, TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF
“I joined CU Phosco Australia in 2023 after being approached by the family-owned UK business to head up their new venture here in Australia - I originally moved to Australia with my family in 2017 when I was working for Telensa, again another company who identified the Australian market as a growth market for street lighting and street lighting controls.
CU Phosco, for those who haven’t heard of us, is in its 4th generation of family ownership. The company was founded in 1923 by Charles Marques, who was originally from Adelaide, South Australia. CU Phosco Australia is part of the larger CU Phosco Group, which is the UK’s longest-established exterior lighting company.”
WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE INVOLVE?
“My main role here is growing the business in Australia - everything from road lighting and exterior lighting to high masts. On top of that, I also manage our global telecoms offering, called Connected Urban. Essentially, we replace streetlights with specially designed poles that house radios and antennas, providing connectivity at street level and a revenue stream for the asset. It’s an exciting mix of lighting and technology.”
WHAT’S YOUR BACKGROUND IN LIGHTING?
“While I’m new to CU Phosco, I’ve been in the lighting industry since 1987. I started at Bristol City Council as an area engineer and have worked with suppliers, manufacturers, and consultants ever since. Over the past 38 years, I’ve gained experience across almost every aspect of exterior lighting.”
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY OUTSIDE OF WORK?
“I live in Australia, so outside work, I spend a lot of time outdoors with my two cocker spaniels - they need plenty of walking! Luckily, we’re near some great beaches where they can run off-leash. We are also keen campers and take full advantage of every opportunity to explore this vast continent. I’m also really into four-wheel-drive off-roading - it’s a great way to get out into nature and unwind.”
THANKS KEITH!
Keith’s mix of deep industry knowledge and forward-thinking approach makes him a huge asset to CU Phosco Australia. Whether it’s expanding our lighting solutions or pioneering connectivity through Connected Urban, he’s helping shape the future of our business.