People behind the Salon

Simon Belt - Coordinator

Simon Belt started his career in the technology industry in the rather restrictive environment of the civil service, moving into the more flexible and innovative international outsourcing world. Looking to implement technology the way it should be deployed, rather than what suits any given contract, Simon established his own IT Consultancy in 1999 - Simply Better IT. His passion is to help improve the way small businesses use technology, by matching its use to the way they work best and delivering end-to-end IT solutions, to those best suited for engaging larger businesses and institutions as equals.

Born and brought up in Yorkshire, he moved to Lancashire on a civilising mission some 25 years ago. After some success there, he’s moved on to sunny Derbyshire where he’s now based. From the delightful surroundings of New Mills, Simon plans and coordinates the Manchester Salon - preparing discussions, booking venues, promoting via the website, Email notifications and management of the Salon's Facebook Group. Always keen to take on new themes to discuss, formats to experiment with and collaborations to explore, please complete the Contact the Salon form with suggestions of your own.

Hilary Salt - Chair

Hilary Salt is a qualified actuary and a director of First Actuarial plc. She started her career in the insurance industry before moving to the consultancy sector. After qualification, she took a break from actuarial work to study politics and modern history at Manchester University. But the actuarial world called her back and she now advises a wide range of clients including local businesses, national trade unions and a number of not for profit organisations. She is also the independent advisor to the Technical Advisory Group reviewing the NHS Pension Scheme.

One of Hilary's day jobs is chairing a board of trustees and she brings these skills with her to salon meetings. Thankfully salon attendees rarely need too much controlling so she concentrates on teasing out contentious issues and making sure everyone with something to add gets to contribute to the discussion. She also plays that vital role in ensuring the discussions finish in time for a quick drink afterwards. Hilary thinks the national Debating Matters competition provides just the right challenge to 6th form students keen to argue their corner and plays a prominent in its success in the nothern regions.

Keith McCabe - Advisor

Keith McCabe grew up in Birmingham and has moved around the UK before moving North five years ago. He started work as an apprentice engineer, worked his way up to become a Chartered Engineer, and is currently working as a transport consultant specialising in environment and technology issues.

Keith has been interested in the arts for a long time, having being one of the founders of the Angle Gallery in Birmingham - well known for its support for freedom of expression. Latterly, he has been involved in the arts and mental health organisation Brainstorm, and was a member of the committee of the Artsmill gallery in Hebden Bridge. He is keen to draw on his experience in both the arts and engineering to help the Salon to reach out to other organisations in the North West, in creative and innovative ways.