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About AcSoft

AcSoft Ltd was established in 1994 by Technical Director, John Shelton, who, having spent many years with a competitor business in the UK and Denmark, decided that software-based measurement systems were the future.

During the past 30 years, John and his team have built on contacts in the industry and experience of advanced applications to develop a complementary range of products and software from top quality transducers through to final analysis and reporting software.

AcSoft has now grown into a multidisciplinary company offering solutions to large multinational businesses and small consultancies alike, along with applications advice, to ensure maximum return on investment.

AcSoft pride themselves in offering the very best in customer service to ensure our customers come back to us time and again.

Based in Bedfordshire, the office accommodates the sales and support teams along with a purpose-built calibration laboratory.

You can rely on AcSoft to support you throughout your project and come up a cutting edge monitoring and measuring solution. We use products from leading manufactures, many of who we have built very strong relationships with thanks to our longevity in the industry. This means we can give our clients access to the very best hardware and software.

Paul Rubens

Paul Rubens

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Paul has extensive experience in the health, safety and environmental technology marketplaces across Europe, Asia and the Americas, and spent over ten years as Managing Director of one of the world’s most successful health, safety and environmental monitoring instrumentation companies.

He specialises in helping businesses grow into exciting new areas and has a proven track record in helping European-based businesses expand internationally and American and Asian businesses grow within Europe.

Paul also has wide-ranging experience of working with the UK government, having led an environmental trade mission for UK trade and investment to Taiwan in 2007 and the first of a new series of trade missions to China initiated by the Prime Minister in 2008. He also chaired an international working group for the Environmental Industry Commission (EIC). In 2006, Paul was a guest at Buckingham Palace at a reception for members of the UK scientific community.

He holds an honours degree in physics, an HND in electronics and a diploma in mathematics.

Aidan Hubbard

Aidan Hubbard

CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER

Aidan joined Svantek UK in early 2016 when we moved to our new offices near Bedford and brings significant commercial experience to this sales position.

Aidan spent 11 years in a variety of roles with leading power tools supplier, Cooks of Bedford, including E-Commerce Manager where he was responsible for eight members of staff, and helped the department grow to become 50% of the company’s total turnover.

“Svantek is an impressive company with market leading products and exciting prospects, and I am thrilled to to be leading the team at this key point in its growth story,” comments Aidan

“Aidan has all the credentials we require in a Sales Director and will strengthen Svantek & AcSoft’s presence in their main target markets,” he concludes.

John Shelton

CHIEF TECHNICAL OFFICER

John Shelton holds an Honours degree in Acoustical Engineering, and a Masters degree in Sound & Vibration Studies, from ISVR in Southampton.

After a short time developing loudspeakers at Goodmans, he joined Bruel & Kjaer UK as an area sales engineer. Over the nine years that followed, he specialised in sound intensity and source location techniques, as well as managing technical sales across the UK.

Two years at Brüel & Kjær in Denmark gave him experience in VXI-based virtual instrumentation, and whetted his appetite for software measurement solutions, taking responsibility for worldwide sales & marketing.

Founding AcSoft in 1994, with many international contacts becoming suppliers and friends, the company has now developed to become one of the leading players in the UK noise & vibration instrumentation market.

A sister company, Svantek UK, was also formed in 2011 to expand the market for this high-quality range of hand-held instruments

John is an active member of the Institute of Acoustics and sits on several national committees and working groups on measurement & instrumentation.

A keen racing dinghy sailor, John has won several National & European titles on the water and is also a keen flat-earth audiophile.

Ian Macfarlane

Ian Macfarlane

SENIOR APPLICATIONS ENGINEER

Ian joined AcSoft in December 2015, bringing with him a BSc (Hons) in Electroacoustics and a background spanning electronics, telecommunications, professional audio, and loudspeaker technology. His extensive knowledge and passion for sound make him a valued member of the team.

Ian performs a technical sales and support role in AcSoft. His aim is to enable clients to make the best decisions possible in choosing the optimal system for their projects. He subsequently provides support in the form of training, configuration of software and hardware systems, and resolution of technical issues. In terms of applications, Ian primarily looks after those such as multi-channel analysis, noise source location, electroacoustic testing and specialist applications generally. But equally, you’ll find him on the end of any queries supporting noise and vibration monitoring projects.

Founded on an Electroacoustics degree, Ian has many years of experience in a variety of industries wherever there is audio. The world of sound and vibration measurement with AcSoft has subsequently proved to be a great platform to apply that knowledge and experience in understanding clients’ needs and creating the best solutions for them. He particularly enjoys meeting customers from a wide variety of industries, developing long-term relationships, providing solutions to technical challenges, and continually learning from both customers and AcSoft’s technology partners.

Outside of work, Ian enjoys recording music, playing the guitar, road and mountain biking, photography, and good conversation. He also enjoys Nepalese curries at the Katmandu in Dénia with friends and a good British or craft ale. His ideal holiday is anywhere that combines good weather, outdoor activities, interesting landscapes, vibrant cities, and the opportunity to experience different cultures and meet new people.

Paige Isaacs

Paige Isaacs

SALES SPECIALIST

Paige joined the team in September 2024, bringing with her a strong background in sales and a passion for building customer relationships. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Media Arts, Film and Popular Culture, and previously worked as a Sales Account Manager within the chemical etching and construction industries.

As a Sales Specialist, Paige works across the entire AcSoft product range, with particular expertise in solutions from CrySound and Microflown. She enjoys showcasing the capabilities of our technology and helping customers solve a wide variety of noise-related challenges. She also loves coming into the office when Jo’s dog, Ralph, is there.

Outside of work, Paige is an avid reader and always has a book on the go, with works by Stephen King among her favourites. She also enjoys spending time in nature and cooking elaborate meals. Her favourite things include a traditional roast dinner, a glass of red wine, and her beloved cat, Albus Dumbleclaw, who is never far from the spotlight

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debra Gill

Debra Gill

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE

Debra first joined AcSoft in February 2016, remaining with the company until June 2019, before returning in February 2023. With a background in marketing and extensive experience in business development, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the AcSoft team.

Specialising in sales and technical business development, Debra is passionate about building strong customer relationships and delivering exceptional service. She takes the time to understand each customer’s unique requirements, helping them find the right solutions to meet their needs.

Debra particularly enjoys the business development and technical sales aspects of her role. From identifying new opportunities and meeting new customers to applying her technical knowledge to recommend the most suitable products, she plays an important part in supporting customers while contributing to AcSoft’s continued growth.

Outside of work, Debra enjoys playing pool, listening to drum and bass, and exploring new cities on weekend breaks. Her favourite meal is Cajun rigatoni with spring vegetables, best enjoyed with a cold lager. A keen traveller, Debra has fond memories of visiting Paris, although Spain holds a special place in her heart, as it’s where her mum lives.

Owen Hubbard

Owen Hubbard

INTERNAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE

Owen is responsible for business development in the south of the UK, working with George and Jake to get them in front of customers. Having started off in a business admin role for the company, Owen is now enjoying his new role as part of the sales team.  He enjoys regularly speaking with customers about our latest products and building long lasting relationships.

Owen has achieved a Level 3 qualification in Business Administration through Bedford College.

Ella Chambers

Ella Chambers

CUSTOMER SUCCESS & SERVICES COORDINATOR

Ella originally joined AcSoft as an Office Administrator before taking time out to travel across Asia and Australia. Returning to the team in a new role, she now manages contracts and calibration administration while liaising closely with customers to ensure everything runs smoothly from enquiry through to completion.

A Psychology graduate from Cardiff University, Ella knew she wanted to work in a busy, people-focused environment. She enjoys the variety her role offers, particularly building relationships with customers and helping to provide a seamless service. Her organised approach and friendly nature make her a valued member of the team.

Outside of work, Ella enjoys travelling, spending time with friends, and treating herself to a good Chinese takeaway. She’s a fan of Amy Winehouse and Arctic Monkeys, and never misses the opportunity to sing “Valerie” at karaoke.

When it comes to drinks, Ella’s choice depends on the occasion—whether it’s a refreshing Moretti or a Monster to keep her going. Her enthusiasm, approachable personality, and customer-focused mindset make her a great fit for the AcSoft team.

Jo Hare

Jo Johnson

MARKETING MANAGER

Jo joined AcSoft after building her marketing career within a digital marketing agency and later in two marketing roles for businesses supplying the education sector. With a wealth of experience across digital marketing, branding, and campaign management, she leads the company’s marketing strategy while continuing to strengthen both the AcSoft and Svantek UK brands.

As Marketing Manager, Jo oversees a wide range of projects, from content writing, website development, and event organisation to analysing campaign performance and driving brand growth. She enjoys the variety her role offers and particularly values working on long-term projects, such as the calibration portal, while collaborating closely with the wider team to deliver successful marketing initiatives.

Outside of work, Jo enjoys unwinding with a good thriller or crime novel on her Kindle, with Lisa Jewell and Robert Galbraith among her favourite authors. She also enjoys walking her dog, Ralph, cross stitch, and watching reality TV favourites such as The Real Housewives and Below Deck.

When it comes to food and drink, Jo’s favourites include Mexican cuisine and a cold Dr Pepper. She has a soft spot for red pandas and dreams of one day visiting the Seychelles for the perfect tropical getaway.

Jacob Moss

MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Jacob joined AcSoft as a Digital Marketing Apprentice in 2022 after working at McDonald’s from 2021 to 2022. He successfully completed his Level 3 Digital Marketing Apprenticeship with Distinction in February 2024 and has since progressed into a full-time role as a Marketing Executive.

Jacob’s role spans a variety of marketing activities, including image and video editing, social media content creation, website design and maintenance, and copywriting. He enjoys the creative nature of marketing and takes pride in seeing the campaigns and content he has designed appear across advertisements, social media, and other marketing channels.

With a keen eye for detail and a passion for creativity, Jacob plays an important role in helping promote AcSoft’s products and services while ensuring the company’s brand remains engaging and consistent across all platforms.

Outside of work, Jacob is a passionate football fan. He runs his own Sunday League team in Hitchin and is a dedicated supporter of Crystal Palace F.C..

Jacob’s favourite meal is a Chinese takeaway, with crispy chilli beef, special fried rice and spring rolls at the top of the list. He enjoys a cold pint of Asahi or Mahou, while Cherry Pepsi Max is his preferred soft drink. He also enjoys travelling, with Amsterdam being one of his favourite cities to visit.

Faith Cissell

MARKETING ASSISTANT

Faith joined the AcSoft team in February 2025, making a career change from her previous role as a Dental Nurse, where she also managed the clinic’s social media content. After initially working closely with the Administration Team, Faith moved into the Marketing Team in April 2026 to further develop her passion for content creation and business development.

Working alongside Jo and Jacob, Faith plays a key role in producing educational social media videos, creating company graphics, and supporting a wide range of marketing and content production projects. She particularly enjoys the creative side of her role and loves working behind the scenes to help develop and enhance the company website.

With a keen eye for detail and a passion for engaging content, Faith enjoys finding new ways to showcase AcSoft’s products and services while helping to strengthen the company’s online presence.

Outside of work, Faith enjoys treating herself to a smash burger, binge-watching Dexter, and listening to Chase & Status. Whether she’s creating content at work or relaxing with her favourite music and TV show, creativity is never far from her day-to-day life

Shannon Batten

Shannon Batten

FINANCE MANAGER

Shannon oversees all bookkeeping operations for AcSoft. Having worked in finance for 9 years in various roles, Shannon started her career as an apprentice at an accountancy firm before becoming fully qualified as a member of the AAT in 2016. Since then, she has gained experience in management accounting and financial reporting.

Shannon’s approach to bookkeeping and operational processing means she is a great asset to the team.

Becky Fisher

ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE

Becky joined AcSoft in September as part of the Finance team, bringing with her a strong foundation in accounting and business administration. Previously working for an online garden centre, she successfully completed a Level 4 Finance Assistant Apprenticeship through the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) in partnership with the University of Cambridge.

As a Finance Assistant, Becky supports the day-to-day financial operations of the business while continuing to develop her knowledge and expertise within the industry. She enjoys learning new processes, building on her skills, and playing an important role in helping the Finance team keep everything running smoothly.

Becky values the variety her role offers and takes pride in contributing to the efficient running of the business, ensuring financial tasks are completed accurately and on time.

Outside of work, Becky enjoys Italian food and unwinding with a glass of white wine or a Fanta Fruit Twist. Her favourite film would be the Disney classic, The Little Mermaid.

Joana Faia

FINANCE TRAINEE

Joana joined the team in January 2024 and has become an important part of our Accounts department. She studied A-levels in Spanish, Law and Sociology before completing her AAT Level 2 Accounting qualification, and is continuing to develop her expertise by starting AAT Level 3 Accounting. Prior to joining the company, Joana gained experience in retail, hairdressing support and charity event coordination.

Working within the Accounts Team, Joana helps maintain accurate and organised company finances, playing a key role in supporting the smooth day-to-day running of the business. She enjoys the sense of achievement that comes from completing tasks, while continually building her knowledge and experience within the finance industry.

Outside of work, Joana enjoys attending Christian conferences, listening to Christian podcasts, and investing in personal growth while embracing a wellness-focused lifestyle. She loves Portuguese cuisine, water with electrolytes would be her drink of choice, and her dream holiday would be spent on a white sandy beach with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking sunsets.

Sarah Harding

Sarah Harding

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION MANAGER

Sarah joined AcSoft on 5th February 2018 and has been a key part of the team ever since. After leaving Bedford College at 17, she began her career working at a solicitors, having previously enjoyed a Saturday job at Argos in her younger years. She later took time out to raise her daughters, Chloe and Gabrielle, a period she fondly describes as the best job she’s ever had. Returning to work, Sarah went on to become a Nursery Manager before moving into administration and pastoral care at Biddenham Upper School, eventually becoming the Attendance Officer before joining AcSoft.

As Office Manager, Sarah is at the heart of the business, supporting colleagues across every department while ensuring customers receive the highest level of service. She enjoys working closely with the administration team and helping keep the office running smoothly. While the role is always busy, Sarah values being part of such a supportive and compassionate company that genuinely cares for its employees. If you ask her what she enjoys most about work, though, she’ll happily tell you it’s “going home!”

Outside of work, Sarah loves spending time with her grandson, daughters Chloe and Gabrielle, and the rest of her family. She enjoys trips to the cinema, reading a good book, gardening, dancing, holidays, and making the most of every opportunity to have fun.

Sarah has far too many favourite places to eat to choose just one—as long as she’s not the one cooking! She loves the summer months and enjoys travelling, believing that every holiday destination has something special to offer.

Fiona Baines

Fiona Baines

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

Fiona joined AcSoft in September and quickly became an integral part of the Operations team. With a background in administration and finance, including previous roles as a School Receptionist and Finance Officer at a private school, she brings a wealth of organisational experience and a keen eye for detail to the role.

As an Office Administrator, Fiona is responsible for managing deliveries, booking couriers, and ensuring customer orders are processed efficiently. She enjoys working in a fast-paced environment and thrives on the communication and teamwork involved in keeping AcSoft’s day-to-day operations running smoothly.

Fiona takes pride in providing dependable support across the business, helping to ensure orders are delivered on time and customers receive the high level of service AcSoft is known for.

Outside of work, Fiona enjoys Thai food and discovering great coffee spots. She loves watching Gilmore Girls and listening to Avril Lavigne, making the most of her downtime with good food, great music, and her favourite TV series.

Marta Mieszkowska

ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT

Marta joined the AcSoft team in April 2026, bringing with her valuable office experience gained within a warehouse environment. She also has a creative background, having studied Visual Effects and Animation at the University of Bedfordshire, giving her a unique blend of organisational skills and creativity.

Working closely with Sarah and Fiona, Marta plays an important role in ensuring customer satisfaction and the smooth management of equipment. Her day-to-day responsibilities include preparing customer orders, carefully packing equipment, and coordinating deliveries to the highest standards. She also works closely with couriers to ensure equipment is delivered efficiently, making every transition between AcSoft and its customers as seamless and stress-free as possible.

Marta enjoys the fast-paced nature of her role and the variety it offers, with each day presenting new challenges and opportunities. She takes pride in helping the administration team deliver an excellent customer experience from start to finish.

Outside of work, Marta enjoys ordering a Chicken George and is a self-confessed coffee enthusiast. She’s a fan of the TV shows The Office and Vikings, and loves listening to Depeche Mode in her spare time.

Sibo Ngcobo

Sibo Ngcobo

SERVICES MANAGER

After attending Southampton University and obtaining a degree in Audio Engineering, Sibo joined AcSoft in 2019.

Sibo is responsible for managing the tech support, hire and calibration services that AcSoft provides.

You can often find Sibo configuring systems, diagnosing hardware and software faults and solving technical and applications problems, either over the phone or in person. He also carries out comprehensive application training sessions.

Sibo regularly goes to the gym, trying to go everyday after work. He also enjoys a Nando’s where he will usually order chicken thighs, peri rice, peri fries with lots of hot sauce.

 

Kai Rix

Kai Rix

TECHNICAL SUPPORT TECHNICIAN

Kai joined AcSoft in December 2021 after completing a Level 3 qualification in Engineering at Bedford College. Since joining the company, he has continued to develop his technical expertise by successfully completing both Level 4 and Level 5 qualifications in Electrical Engineering. Before joining AcSoft, Kai worked at a garden centre while studying before spending two years as a mechanic, giving him a strong practical foundation that he brings to his role every day.

As a Service Engineer, Kai is responsible for servicing and maintaining equipment while also mentoring AcSoft’s apprentices, helping them develop their skills and confidence. He enjoys the variety of equipment he works with and takes pride in sharing his knowledge, ensuring customers receive the highest standard of service while supporting the next generation of engineers.

Outside of work, Kai has a real passion for restoring and repairing vehicles, particularly classic cars. He is currently restoring a 1973 Land Rover Series 3, having previously completed a 1986 BMW E30 project. His interest in engineering extends to motorcycles, lawnmowers and tractors, while he also enjoys gardening, listening to music, and spending time with his family, partner, and his Lurcher, Forest.

When he’s not working on his latest restoration project, Kai enjoys pizza, Caribbean curry with rice and peas, and a homemade roast dinner. Tenerife is his favourite holiday destination so far, and he enjoys following Formula 1 and football. His favourite drinks are Pepsi Max or Sprite, while a chilled cider or Hugo Spritz is his preferred choice on special occasions.

Tom Bowen

TECHNICAL SUPPORT TECHNICIAN

After graduating Leicester University with a degree in music technology he worked in the events industry, prepping events and working behind the scenes to ensure that lighting and cabling were working correctly. He then decided a career change was needed, joining our calibration team in March 2024. Tom has since moved on to the technical team where he now specialises in preparing our hire kits and purchases to the highest standards.

Tom has been working predominantly on Svantek equipment, specifically gaining a lot of experience with the SV 307A.

Tom says that the working environment has been a great change of pace from previous roles, enjoying the better flexibility and being able to work in a very ‘hands on’ role.

Tom is a big football and Manchester United fan, but also enjoys supporting his local team, St Albans in which he is a season ticket holder.

Ali Makki

SERVICE APPRENTICE

Ali joined the team in April 2026 after previously working within the Tech Team as a T Level student. During his placement, Ali quickly impressed the team with his strong work ethic and technical ability, which led to him being offered an apprenticeship.

Working closely with the Tech Team, Ali is responsible for repairing customers’ equipment to a high standard while working within tight turnaround times. He enjoys diagnosing and solving technical issues, and takes pride in helping ensure equipment is returned to customers efficiently and reliably.

Outside of work, Ali enjoys relaxing with a Lebanese grill while watching his favourite TV show, The Boys. His dream car is the BMW M4, and his favourite songs are Chicago and Billie Jean by Michael Jackson.

Will Jay

Will Jay

CALIBRATION LAB MANAGER

Will joined AcSoft in March 2023 and brings a wealth of hands-on experience from a wide variety of industries. Before joining the company, he worked in roles including pot wash, baker, barber, bartender, restaurant manager, sound technician, and set design and calibration. This diverse background has given him a practical approach to problem-solving and a broad range of technical skills.

As Laboratory Manager, Will is responsible for overseeing all equipment calibrations, laboratory procedures, accreditation requirements, and both internal and external audits. He plays a vital role in ensuring AcSoft maintains the highest standards of quality, accuracy, and compliance within the calibration lab.

Will particularly enjoys the variety his role offers and the opportunity to work with and test a wide range of specialist equipment. He is always keen to expand his knowledge and understands the importance of maintaining reliable, high-quality calibration services for AcSoft’s customers.

Outside of work, Will enjoys following football, exploring history, and watching films. His ideal meal is a proper roast dinner with all the trimmings, best enjoyed with a Leffe Blonde. When it comes to travelling, Mexico is his favourite destination, offering the perfect combination of culture, food, and relaxation.

Toby Clark

CALIBRATION TECHNICIAN

Toby joined AcSoft in May 2026 as a Calibration Laboratory Technician and has quickly become a valued member of the laboratory team. In his role, he is responsible for calibrating a wide range of equipment, ensuring every instrument meets the highest standards of accuracy and quality before it reaches customers.

Toby particularly enjoys the hands-on nature of his role and the opportunity to work with a diverse range of specialist equipment. Every day presents something different, allowing him to continually expand his technical knowledge while developing his practical skills in the laboratory.

Outside of work, Toby enjoys putting his knowledge to the test at pub quizzes and spending time with friends. He also has a keen interest in cars, with the Lamborghini Gallardo being his dream car.

When it comes to food, Toby’s favourite takeaway is Indian cuisine. Italy is his favourite holiday destination thanks to its food, scenery and culture, although Japan is at the top of his travel bucket list and somewhere he hopes to visit in the future.

 

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