On August 1, 2013, the COO of IXcellerate, former Vice President of Golden Telecom, and owner of Solent Technologies James Arthur Clifford Gauntlett passed away…
Cliff Gauntlett was born April 4, 1960 in New Madlen, UK to Jim and Mavis Gauntlett. After being raised in the UK, Cliff moved to the United States where he completed high school. He was introduced to Russia in the late 1980’s when he was asked to lead Autodesk’s efforts to establish a presence in Russia.
Throughout his 30+ year career, Cliff has been strongly associated with innovative technologies. He began as a computer programmer and worked tirelessly to become the co-founder of one of Russia’s premier data centers. The combination of organizational skills, a high level of professionalism, and a democratic style of communication allowed him throughout the years to successfully and efficiently manage such companies as Golden Telecom, Solent Technologies, and IXcellerate. During these years, the brand Russia-on-Line (ROL)/Golden Telecom became the first national internet-provider of Russia and won the coveted Runet award.
Cliff had incredible charisma, an unquestionable character, and a wonderful sense of humor. Colleagues, partners and employees will remember him as an attentive and responsive person, as well as a wise and patient leader.
Unfortunately, he has been taken from us at far too young of an age. His colleagues and friends express their sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.
The farewell ceremony was held on August 6, 2013, at Moscow, Altufievskoe shosse, 33G, in IXcellerate Moscow One Datacentre.