Experience and insight are invaluable in the rapidly evolving world of traffic management. Today, we're thrilled to share an interview with the managing Director at smartmicro UK, Peter Eccleson, who has dedicated an impressive 32 years to the traffic industry. His journey offers a wealth of knowledge, and we hope you find his reflections as inspiring as we do:
How does celebrating your 32nd anniversary in the industry feel? What milestones or achievements stand out to you?
Peter: 32 years in the industry — and it still feels like Day 1!
What a ride it's been. This career has never just been a job — it's my passion, my hobby, and my home.
Over the years, I've had the privilege of being on the ground floor of countless exciting projects and helping to build businesses from the ground up. Every milestone has been a stepping stone, and I'm proud of the legacy being shaped—one innovation at a time.
Retirement isn't even on my horizon yet. Here's to the past and even more to the future!
Can you share a bit about your career journey? What initially drew you to the traffic industry field, and how has your role evolved?
Peter: I began my career as an Electronics Officer in the Navy, later working in communications security in Africa for 8 years. When I returned to the UK, I was searching for a new direction—one that would let me apply my technical skills in a meaningful way.
A chance conversation with a neighbor led me into the world of electronic traffic signs. I didn't know much about them at the time—but I knew electronics, and I was eager to learn. That first consultancy role introduced me to an industry where I quickly realized I could make a real difference.
That spark led me to Siemens Traffic, where I became Head of UK Urban Traffic Sales and later Head of Sales & Marketing. In 1999, I joined Marconi (which later became Telent), tasked with unifying its traffic-related business units into a single Roads & Highways Division—a decade-long journey that was both challenging and rewarding.
Ten years later, I was approached by SWARCO to build and grow a UK business around their recent acquisition of Dambach GmbH, which had a UK business unit in Yorkshire. I couldn't resist the opportunity. Growing and leading traffic tech companies has proven to be not just a career—it's been a passion and a lot of fun along the way.
From defense systems to dynamic traffic solutions, this journey has been about evolution, learning, and leading in a space where technology truly changes lives.
What were some of the biggest challenges you've faced in this field, and how did you navigate through them?
Peter: After my time with SWARCO, I took on one of the most demanding challenges of my career—stepping in as CEO of Vix Technology, a company then operating at a £2.5M annual loss.
But I saw potential. The team was strong, and the product had promise. With focus, belief, and a clear strategy, we turned things around: Within 3 years, we went from a loss to a £2M profit, we expanded our client base and we developed and delivered better products and stronger service.
That experience gave me the confidence to take the next big step: go do it alone!
I acquired Smart CCTV, rebranded it as Smart Video & Sensing, and set out to build something from the ground up. Eventually, that journey came full circle when the company was acquired by smartmicro.
Sometimes, the biggest challenges pave the way for the most fulfilling chapters. This one certainly did.
What advice would you give someone just starting in the traffic management industry? What skills or qualities do you think are essential?
Peter: If you're thinking about entering the traffic technology industry, one of the most valuable things you can bring is a mindset rooted in curiosity and adaptability. I entered the field not through formal training in traffic systems but through a willingness to apply what I already knew—electronics, systems thinking, and a desire to solve problems. When a neighbor asked if I understood electronic traffic signs, I didn't. But I knew electronics, and I was confident I could learn. That openness to growth became the foundation of a career in an industry that's constantly evolving.
The truth is many of the technologies in this space—from radar and sensors to connected systems and cloud platforms—are adaptable for those with a foundation in electronics, computing, or communications. What's crucial is the ability to translate technical knowledge into practical, real-world solutions for transport infrastructure. Whether you're installing VMS signs or integrating intelligent traffic systems (ITS) with city-wide networks, success often comes down to your ability to learn quickly, solve problems creatively, and work across a diverse set of stakeholders—from engineers and city planners to public sector procurement teams.
In this industry, technology isn't just about hardware—it's about creating safer, smarter, and more sustainable mobility for everyone. That mission makes it incredibly rewarding. So, if you're entering from a different path like I did, don't let that hold you back. The skills are learnable, and the opportunities are limitless for those who are curious, resilient, and willing to jump in with both feet.
Can you share a memorable project or experience that has left a lasting impression on you?
Peter: There have been many defining moments in my career. However, one thing that stands out is the day I decided to take a leap—leaving behind the comfort and security of big corporate life to buy my own company.
I'd spent years in leadership roles at major organizations, surrounded by resources, structure, and predictability. But there came a point when I felt a pull—an urge to build something on my own terms. That's when I took the risk and acquired Smart Video & Sensing Ltd. It wasn't just a business decision; it was a bold personal pivot, made late in my career, at a time when many might play it safe.
It was a moment filled with excitement, uncertainty, and adrenaline. But it proved to be one of the most empowering and rewarding chapters of my professional journey. That step into the unknown taught me that it's never too late to back yourself—and sometimes, the biggest risks lead to the most fulfilling outcomes. It was a real leap into the unknown!
In conclusion, we want to express our sincere thanks to Peter for his invaluable contributions to the traffic industry. His expertise has been crucial in helping smartmicro establish a strong presence in the UK market. Thank you, Peter, for your dedication and support!