Founded in 2020 by Sam Clark, TDS has rapidly established itself as one of the UK’s fastest-growing software consultancies, specialising in software development, testing, platform engineering, and user-centred design. 

Since its first revenue just five years ago, the company has grown from a six-figure start-up in year one to an eight-figure global business five years later, reflecting exceptional year-on-year growth and rapid international expansion, all built on organic, self-funded growth, without any external investment.

This growth has been driven by the company’s quality-first approach, high technical standards, and a culture that puts people at the heart of everything it does. What began as a one-person start-up has grown into a global business of more than 160 people, with offices in Newcastle, Poland and Canada. Together, these teams provide around-the-clock support, helping TDS deliver cutting-edge solutions for clients across financial services, the public sector, and beyond.

As part of its next stage of growth, TDS has introduced a senior leadership team with several key appointments joining the company over the past few months:

David McAvelia, Chief Revenue Officer – bringing over two decades of experience in recruitment, software consultancy and a focus on developing commercial strategies and new market opportunities.

Andy Thompson, Chief of Staff – a seasoned HR and operations leader with 25 years’ experience in high-growth technology businesses, focused on scaling sustainably while preserving TDS’s unique culture.

Adrian Pollard, Financial Director – a finance expert with more than 20 years of experience in strategic financial planning and systems integration, supporting growth and long-term stability.

Jack Reed, Head of Technology Services – one of TDS’s longest-serving leaders, is helping to shape the company’s technical strategy and ensure innovation remains at the forefront of delivery.

These appointments reflect TDS’s commitment to strengthening its foundations while pursuing expansion plans. The upcoming Edinburgh office will build on the company’s strong presence in the North and Scotland, supporting new and existing clients while creating new opportunities for local talent.

The planned Latin America base will further extend TDS’s international footprint, offering clients global delivery capabilities.

Sam Clark, Founder and CEO of Test Driven Solutions, said: “When I founded TDS, my goal was to build a consultancy that truly cared about its people, one where quality, culture and collaboration came first. The growth we’ve achieved over the past five years has been incredible, but it’s been built on our values and our people.

“As we enter this next phase of expansion, I’m proud to welcome our new leadership team, who bring the experience, insight and drive needed to take TDS to the next level, while staying true to who we are. The opening of our Edinburgh office and our expansion into Latin America mark an exciting new chapter in our journey, and I’m confident the best is yet to come.”

A core part of TDS’s people-first approach is its commitment to nurturing talent and inclusivity. The company’s graduate scheme gives recruits hands-on experience across development, testing and DevOps before specialising in one area, creating a clear progression career pathway.

TDS also champions neurodiversity and individuality in the workplace, a value that’s especially close to founder Sam Clark, who was diagnosed with autism a few years ago and has made it his mission to ensure every employee can thrive in an open, supportive environment.